"It's a Wake-Up Call" — Oshoala Reacts To Nigeria's Opening Loss To Malawi

"It's a Wake-Up Call" — Oshoala Reacts To Nigeria's Opening Loss To Malawi

By Niyi Busari 

Super Falcons forward Asisat Oshoala has described Nigeria's 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening match of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco as a wake-up call, urging the team to regroup and focus on the challenges ahead, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Tournament debutants Malawi stunned the defending champions with an impressive performance, taking a commanding 3-1 lead before stoppage time. Temwa Chawinga scored twice, netting the opening and third goals, while her sister, Tabitha Chawinga, added the second to put the Southern Africans in control.

Nigeria fought back late in the game through a Rasheedat Ajibade penalty and a stoppage-time strike from Uchenna Kanu, but the 10-time African champions were unable to complete the comeback.

Speaking after the match, Oshoala acknowledged the growing competitiveness of women's football across the continent.

"Smaller nations are closing the gap, but it's also a wake-up call for Nigeria. We have to understand that other teams want to win this trophy as well," she said.

The six-time African Women's Player of the Year stressed that there is still enough time for the Super Falcons to recover in the tournament.

"It's still a long competition, and all we need to do is prepare well for the next game."

Oshoala also appealed to Nigerians to continue backing the team despite the disappointing start, emphasizing the importance of their support.

"We need the support of all Nigerians right now. A World Cup ticket is at stake, to be honest. This is the time we really need everyone to support the Super Falcons."

She concluded by apologising to the fans for the opening-day defeat.

"We are sorry for losing the opening game to Malawi."

Nigeria will face Zambia in their second group game on Saturday before facing Egypt on August 5, 2026 in their last game. Earlier Zambia walloped Egypt 6-0 in Group C opener.