Nigeria risks World Cup after NWSL-led Malawi WAFCON upset
Nigeria's Super Falcons are in clear danger of missing the 2027 Women's World Cup after debutants Malawi stunned the 10-time champions 3-2 at WAFCON in Morocco. Kansas City Current NWSL forward Temwa Chawinga scored twice, with sister Tabitha adding one, leaving the holders needing a must-win against Zambia.
Key Takeaways
- Malawi beat Nigeria 3-2 in their WAFCON debut at Rabat's Al Madina Stadium, ESPN called it the biggest upset in tournament history.
- NWSL star Temwa Chawinga scored twice; OL Lyonnes forward Tabitha Chawinga added the other Malawi goal.
- Four WAFCON semifinalists earn automatic berths to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil; Nigeria have never missed a World Cup since 1991.
- Zambia lead Group C after a 6-0 win over Egypt; Nigeria must beat Zambia on Saturday to regain control of qualification.
- Captain Rasheedat Ajibade scored a late penalty and substitute Uchenna Kanu also netted, but time ran out on the comeback.
What happened in Nigeria's loss to Malawi?
Ten-time champions Nigeria fell 3-2 to tournament debutants Malawi on Tuesday night in Rabat. According to ESPN, Temwa Chawinga opened the scoring in the 73rd minute after beating the offside trap, then Tabitha made it 2-0 six minutes later.
Rasheedat Ajibade converted a VAR-checked penalty after a handball, but Temwa struck again deep in stoppage time. Uchenna Kanu pulled one back with virtually the last kick, yet Malawi held on. The Athletic noted Temwa's opener was also Malawi's first-ever WAFCON goal.
Why does this put Nigeria's World Cup place at risk?
WAFCON doubles as African qualifying for Brazil 2027. The Athletic reports the four semifinalists are guaranteed tickets, while quarterfinal losers play on Aug. 13 for a path into the FIFA Playoff Tournament in November.
ESPN says Nigeria—one of only seven sides at every World Cup since 1991—have never failed to reach the WAFCON last four, but a group exit is now conceivable. Zambia sit top on goal difference after thrashing Egypt 6-0. If Nigeria do not beat Zambia, ESPN's arithmetic leaves them with a maximum of four points if Zambia draw or beat Malawi—while Zambia and Malawi would sit on at least five and six points respectively.
Before the tournament, winger Francisca Ordega told the BBC the Super Falcons' first target was World Cup qualification, then defending their title. That order of priorities now looks urgent.
How did NWSL talent shape this WAFCON shock?
Malawi entered ranked 153rd in the world against Nigeria at 36th, the BBC noted, but arrived with proven firepower. Temwa has won the NWSL golden boot and MVP in both of her two full seasons with Kansas City Current; Tabitha helped Lyon to a fifth straight French title.
The Athletic framed NWSL players at WAFCON as role models who feel a duty to lift teammates toward similar overseas chances. Temwa, extended by the Current through 2029 and leading Kansas City with nine goals in 11 games despite an early-season injury absence, had said Malawi came to compete, not merely participate.
Coach Justin Madugu faces scrutiny over selection after what ESPN described as a lethargic Nigeria display and a costly night for goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. The Super Falcons turn to Zambia on Saturday with little margin for error. For more BlasterPost reporting beyond the pitch, see our True Crime & Unsolved Mysteries hub.