Nwabali backs under-fire Nnadozie after Super Falcons stunned by Malawi

Stanley Nwabali has publicly thrown his support behind Chiamaka Nnadozie after the Super Falcons goalkeeper came under intense criticism for her display in Nigeria’s 3-2 defeat by Malawi in their opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Nnadozie, installed once again as Nigeria’s undisputed first-choice keeper as they began the defence of their continental crown, endured a difficult evening as Malawi capitalised on three errors from the 25-year-old to claim a shock win.

The result has prompted debate over whether head coach Justin Madugu should consider a change in goal for Nigeria’s next group fixture, with some supporters calling for Nnadozie to be dropped.

Costly errors in Malawi upset

Malawi’s first goal arrived when Nnadozie rushed off her line but then hesitated at the decisive moment, allowing Temwa Chawinga to pounce and open the scoring.

Nigeria’s problems deepened when a breakdown in communication between Nnadozie and defender Osinachi Ohale resulted in a defensive mix-up that gifted Tabitha Chawinga Malawi’s second.

Rasheedat Ajibade dragged the Super Falcons back into the contest with a goal to make it 2-1, but any momentum was quickly checked. Nnadozie was again positioned too far from her line and Temwa Chawinga took full advantage to restore Malawi’s two-goal cushion.

Uchenna Kanu struck late on to set up a tense finale, yet the earlier mistakes from the three-time African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year ultimately proved decisive as Nigeria slipped to a surprise defeat in their tournament opener.

Supporters question first-choice status

Nnadozie’s performance has sparked a strong reaction from fans, with many highlighting what they perceived as rustiness from the Brighton goalkeeper and urging Madugu to hand an opportunity to an alternative option in goal for the next match.

The Super Falcons, reigning champions of Africa, now face significant pressure to respond immediately if they are to retain the title and keep their campaign on track.

Nwabali’s message of support

Amid the criticism, Nwabali – who plays his club football for Chippa United and has himself experienced the spotlight that comes with representing Nigeria – chose to back his international team-mate in a public show of solidarity.

The Super Eagles goalkeeper, responding in part to a recent light-hearted remark from Nnadozie teasing him about joining her at the Premier League club, used his social media platform to praise her rather than focus on the errors against Malawi.

He described Nnadozie as one of the best goalkeepers he has seen and urged her to remain confident, insisting she has the quality to recover from the setback and return stronger.

Crucial test against Zambia

Nnadozie will now aim to respond on the pitch when the Super Falcons face Zambia on Saturday in a pivotal group fixture.

The Copper Queens approach the match in high spirits after beginning their own 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a dominant 6-0 victory over Egypt on Tuesday.

Nigeria cannot afford another defeat if they are to maintain realistic hopes of defending their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations crown. Victory would not only revive their title defence but also give a significant boost to their chances of qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.