WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons target winning start as Nigeria face debutants Malawi

Defending champions Nigeria will kick off their quest for an 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title when they face tournament debutants Malawi in their Group C opener on Tuesday at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat.

The Super Falcons, who have won the continental championship a record 10 times, begin their title defence in a group that also features Egypt and Zambia.

The encounter marks the first-ever WAFCON meeting between Nigeria and Malawi, with the Southern African side making its maiden appearance at the tournament.

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History strongly favours the Super Falcons against first-time participants.

Tuesday’s fixture will be Nigeria’s 18th match against a WAFCON debutant, and the nine-time African champions have never suffered defeat in such contests.

Nigeria have won 16 of their previous 17 matches against tournament newcomers, with the only blemish being a goalless draw against Tunisia during the group stage of the 2008 edition.

The Super Falcons have also been dominant in those encounters, scoring an impressive 67 goals while conceding just four.

Their most recent victories over debutants came at the 2022 WAFCON, where they defeated Botswana 2-0 before thrashing Burundi 4-0 in the group stage.

For Malawi, the clash represents another milestone, as they become the 21st different nation Nigeria have faced in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

With their formidable record against tournament newcomers, the Super Falcons will be aiming to extend their unbeaten run and make a strong statement in the opening match of their title defence