Nigeria vs Malawi: Team News, Head-To-Head, Players To Watch and Where To Watch

Nigeria vs Malawi: Team News, Head-To-Head, Players To Watch and Where To Watch 

By BSN Sports 

Defending champions Nigeria will begin their quest for a record-extending Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title when they take on tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C fixture on Tuesday in Rabat, Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Super Falcons return to the continental stage looking to successfully defend the crown they reclaimed in Morocco last year after producing a remarkable comeback from two goals down to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final.

Under head coach Justine Madugu, Nigeria will be targeting an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title as they seek another successful campaign in Africa's premier women's football competition.

Strong Start the Priority

Nigeria has been drawn in a competitive Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi. The Super Falcons will be expected to secure all three points against the Scorchers before facing tougher tests against Zambia and Egypt in the remaining group fixtures.

The expanded 16-team tournament also serves as a qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, with the four semi-finalists automatically booking their places at the global showpiece.

A winning start would not only strengthen Nigeria's hopes of progressing to the knockout stages but also reinforce their ambition of retaining the continental title.

What to Expect from the Super Falcons

Nigeria heads into the tournament as Africa's most successful women's national team, boasting a squad filled with experienced internationals and proven performers.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead a team that includes goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, six-time African Women's Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, Michelle Alozie, Christy Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne, Esther Okoronkwo, Gift Monday and Deborah Abiodun.

Ajibade's creativity and leadership will be central to Nigeria's attacking play, while Nnadozie's commanding presence between the posts provides the Falcons with one of the continent's most reliable goalkeepers.

Oshoala, meanwhile, brings a wealth of experience and an outstanding goalscoring pedigree that could prove decisive against the Malawians.

Nigeria will, however, be without defender Ashleigh Plumptre, who continues her recovery from a long-term injury.

The Super Falcons head into the tournament in positive spirits after defeating Tanzania 2-1 in their final warm-up match, while Gift Monday and Deborah Abiodun have also linked up with the squad after overcoming travel delays.

Head-to-Head

Nigeria and Malawi have met only twice at senior international level, both during the qualification campaign for the 2014 African Women's Championship.

Their first meeting in Blantyre ended in a 1-1 draw before the Super Falcons secured a 2-0 victory in the return leg in Abuja.

Nigeria remains unbeaten against Malawi, recording one win and one draw while scoring three goals and conceding just once.

Players to Watch

Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria): The captain's leadership, versatility and attacking quality will be vital as Nigeria begins its title defence.

Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria): One of Africa's finest goalkeepers, Nnadozie's shot-stopping ability and composure could be crucial in containing Malawi's dangerous attack.

Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria): The experienced forward remains one of Africa's most feared strikers and will be looking to add to her impressive WAFCON legacy.

Jennifer Echegini (Nigeria): The creative midfielder is expected to dictate play and unlock Malawi's defensive setup with her vision and technical ability.

Temwa Chawinga (Malawi): Malawi's biggest attacking threat, the Kansas City Current forward possesses blistering pace and clinical finishing that could trouble Nigeria's defence.

Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi): The Lyon forward brings experience, creativity and an excellent understanding with her sister, making her another key player to watch.

Match Details

Fixture: Nigeria vs Malawi

Competition: 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations – Group C

Date: Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Venue: Rabat, Morocco

Kick-off: 9:00 p.m. Nigerian time (WAT)

Live Broadcast: AfroSport, SuperSport (DStv and GOtv)