Not a lot of fans or pundits would have predicted Malawi winning 3-2 against Nigeria in their opening fixture at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, WAFCON.
It was a shock result on many levels.
The Scorchers were making their debut at the competition, while the Super Falcons arrived as defending champions and looking for their record-extending 11th title.
Temwa Chawinga scored Malawi’s first and third goals, while her sister Tabita Chawinga added the second as the debutants took a remarkable 3-1 lead deep into stoppage time.
Nigeria responded through a Rasheedat Ajibade penalty and a late Uchenna Kanu goal, but the Falcons could not complete the comeback.
And so, Justin Madugu’s ladies began the defence of their title with defeat.
“Malawi played good football,” Ope Adebari, a sports analyst, reporter and producer with News Central, tells DAILY POST.
“Malawi was the better team in the first half. That said, I think coach Madugu had the right tactical approach to the game but used the wrong set of players for execution.
“Judging by the changes made early in the second half, I believe coach Madugu realized his mistake but the Super Falcons could not match the momentum of the tournament debutants.”
The Falcons were not the only team to begin with a setback.
South Africa lost 2-1 to Tanzania in their first game and played out a 2-2 draw with Ivory Coast.
“The truth is, the fringe African nations are gradually catching up to the big names in terms of football development,” Adebari said.
“No team is a pushover as they all aim to win the tournament.
“Also, I believe the South African team lacks the right balance between youth and experience. They had four players 30 and above who started the game.”
Nigeria’s chance to get their tournament back on track will come on Saturday against Zambia, who hammered Egypt 3-0 and top Group C.
A second consecutive defeat is inconceivable for the Falcons.
“I expect a highly intense game,” Adebari said.
“Justine Madugu’s team management will be tested as Nigeria are desperate for a win, while a confident Zambia will be looking to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.
“I will have Shukurat Oladipo replace Osinachi Ohale as the center back partner to Tosin Demehin.
“Michelle Alozie moves to right back while Glory Ogbonna comes in as left back. Halimtu Ayinde and Deborah Abiodun in a double pivot, Rasheedat Ajibade as the 10.
“Toni Payne and Rinsola Babajide as the wingers, with Asisat Oshoala as the striker.
“If the team is well set up, if they go into the match well prepared with the aim to win by all means, they will defeat Zambia.
“If they don’t bring their A-game, Zambia will win.”