Nigeria Vs Malawi: Super Falcons Aim to Extend Perfect WAFCON Record Against Debutants
Nigeria will look to extend their flawless record against debutants at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations when they begin the defence of their continental crown against first-time finalists Malawi in their Group C opener on Tuesday in Rabat, Morocco.
The 10-time African champions enter the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 as overwhelming favourites, with history firmly on their side. Since the tournament’s inception in 1998, the Super Falcons have never lost to a nation making its debut at the finals, and they will be determined to preserve that record against the Scorchers at Al Madina Stadium.
Despite Nigeria’s pedigree, head coach Justine Madugu has warned against complacency. The Super Falcons boss insisted his side will treat Malawi with the respect they deserve as they pursue a successful title defence and qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“We are here to defend our title and secure our qualification for the World Cup. The team is fully prepared and ready for battle. We have deep respect for Malawi. They are a very good team, and we are taking absolutely nothing for granted,” Madugu said.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade echoed her coach’s sentiments, stressing that the team’s focus is solely on claiming all three points to launch their campaign on a winning note.
“For us, a good performance means taking all three points. That is what really matters in a tournament like this. If you play well but don’t win, it is pointless. We approach every opponent with humility, but our objective is clear,” Ajibade said.
Malawi, meanwhile, arrive at their first-ever WAFCON finals determined to upset the established order. Head coach Lovemore Fazili dismissed suggestions that his side are merely making up the numbers, insisting the Scorchers are capable of causing one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.
Captain Tabitha Chawinga also expressed confidence ahead of the historic encounter, urging her teammates to play without fear despite Nigeria’s reputation as Africa’s most successful women’s national team.
“It was my dream to play in the WAFCON. The time has come. We know Nigeria’s worth. They are a great nation, but we must focus on ourselves. Our players need to compete without any inferiority complex,” Chawinga said.
