Super Falcons midfielder Esther Okoronkwo has blamed Nigeria’s slow start for their shock 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The defending champions entered Tuesday’s Group C encounter as overwhelming favourites but struggled to impose themselves against the tournament debutants.
Malawi punished Nigeria’s below-par performance through sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga, who scored all three goals in a famous victory.
Temwa struck twice, while Tabitha added another as Malawi recorded their first-ever WAFCON win.
Nigeria attempted a late comeback through captain Rasheedat Ajibade and substitute Uchenna Kanu, but their goals were not enough to rescue a point.
Reacting after the match, Okoronkwo admitted that the Super Falcons did not begin the encounter with the required intensity.
“Next game, we have to come back better. In this game, we came out a little flat,” she said.
“But it is what it is. We have to go back, learn our lesson, know what we should fix and come back better in the next game.”
Okoronkwo Questions Penalty Decision
The midfielder was also involved in a controversial incident after appearing to be brought down inside the Malawi penalty area.
However, the referee waved away Nigeria’s appeals and the decision was not overturned.
When asked about the incident, Okoronkwo refused to blame the officiating for the defeat.
“I don’t know what the referee saw, but I think it should have been looked at,” she said.
“But it is what it is. I didn’t get it, so I won’t talk about it or complain about it.”
The result leaves Nigeria under pressure in Group C as they attempt to defend the continental title and secure a record-extending 11th WAFCON crown.
The Super Falcons must now address their slow start and defensive lapses before their next group match.
For Malawi, the victory represents one of the biggest upsets in the competition’s history and a memorable beginning to their first WAFCON appearance.
