Nigeria’s Super Falcons suffered a shock 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday, with head coach Justine Madugu’s tactical decisions coming under heavy scrutiny.
The ten-time African champions appeared to be in control for long spells but failed to cope when Malawi raised the tempo in the second half at the tournament opener.
Temwa Chawinga broke the deadlock for the Scorchers in the 69th minute before her sister Tabitha Chawinga doubled the lead five minutes later. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade pulled one back for Nigeria from the penalty spot in stoppage time, but Temwa struck again in the 95th minute to restore Malawi’s two-goal cushion. Uchenna Kanu scored a late consolation for the Falcons, but it was too late to alter the result.
One of the decisions that drew criticism was Madugu’s deployment of Michelle Alozie at left-back instead of her natural right-back role. Alozie has been a consistent performer on the right, where her defensive solidity and overlapping runs have been key for Nigeria.
The positional switch disrupted the team’s defensive balance, with Malawi repeatedly exploiting the space down that flank to create dangerous chances that eventually led to goals.
The coach’s reaction from the bench also came under question. Despite clear signs that the team needed fresh legs and tactical adjustments after going behind, substitutions were made late. By then, Malawi had gained confidence, defended resolutely and managed the game to the finish.
While players must also take responsibility for individual errors, the tactical setup and delayed changes made it harder for the Falcons to mount a comeback. Against a determined Malawi side that punished every mistake, those factors proved costly.
The defeat leaves Nigeria with work to do as they seek to recover in their next group game and keep their hopes of an 11th WAFCON title alive.
