Super Falcons goalkeeper owns loss to Malawi, vows WAFCON comeback
Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie accepted responsibility for Nigeria’s 3‑2 loss to Malawi in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations opener, calling the defeat painful but insisting the team remains united and determined to revive their title defence. Speaking on her X account two days after the match, the 25‑year‑old said, "This one really hurts. Not the result we wanted, but the fight was real. Left it all on the field, but wasn’t enough to get the three points." She added, "We take full responsibility for our performance against a very tough opponent. Falls hurt, but we do not stay down. Proud of this team."
Malawi’s victory came from the Chawinga sisters—Temwa scored twice and captain Tabitha added the other goal—marking one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history. Nigeria mounted a late comeback with a stoppage‑time penalty from captain Rasheedat Ajibade and a deep‑added‑time goal from substitute Uchenna Kanu, but the rally fell short.
The loss leaves Nigeria third in Group C without a point, behind leaders Zambia and second‑placed Malawi. Coach Justin Madugu’s side faces Zambia on Saturday in a must‑win match to keep knockout hopes alive, then concludes the group against Egypt on Wednesday, 5 August.
With the Super Falcons needing a win against Zambia to keep their title defence alive, will Coach Madugu adjust tactics or rely on the same squad?