Super Falcons intensify drills after Malawi upset

Following their unexpected defeat to Malawi in their WAFCON opener, the Super Falcons have intensified tactical drills ahead of their must-win Group C fixture against Zambia.

Following their unexpected 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) opener in Morocco, the Super Falcons completed intensive tactical drills ahead of their Group C fixture against Zambia. Interim coaching staff and senior players rallied the squad, emphasising that three points are vital to keep their title defense alive.

The defeat to Malawi was one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history. The Super Falcons, who have won 10 of the 13 editions of the tournament, now face a must-win situation against Zambia. The team’s preparation has been focused on tactical adjustments and mental resilience.

This echoes the 2012 WAFCON, when Nigeria also suffered an early setback. The mechanism then was different, but the result was the same: a wake-up call for the defending champions.

The winners: Zambia, who see an opportunity; and the Nigerian public, who are hoping for a turnaround. The losers: the Super Falcons, who face a must-win situation; and the Nigerian public, who are disappointed by the opening loss.

Bottom Line: The Super Falcons are preparing for a must-win clash against Zambia. The opening loss to Malawi was a shock. The question is whether Nigeria can recover and keep their title defense alive.