WAFCON Wednesday Recap: Malawi and Nigeria Seal Quarterfinal Spots
Group C at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations wrapped up in dramatic fashion on Wednesday evening, as Malawi and Nigeria secured places in the quarterfinals, edging out Zambia after all three sides finished level on points.
At Al Medina Stadium in Rabat, Zambia claimed a 2–1 victory over Malawi. Early goals from Barbra Banda (2’) and Prisca Chilufya (37’) gave the Copper Queens control, before Tabita Chawinga pulled one back in the 72nd minute to keep Malawi firmly in contention.
Meanwhile, at the Rabat Olympic Stadium, Nigeria delivered a dominant 6–2 win over Egypt. The Super Falcons found the net through Asisat Oshoala (21’), Gift Monday (45+2’), Uchenna Kanu (57’), Christy Ucheibe (81’ pen), Rasheedat Ajibade (90+1’ pen), and Joy Omewa (90+9’). Egypt responded with two goals from Nadine Ghazi, who scored from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time (45+10’) and again in the 84th minute.
With all three teams tied on points, the standings were decided by head-to-head criteria. Points and goal difference among the tied teams were identical, making goals scored the deciding factor. Malawi’s four goals placed them top of the group, Nigeria’s three secured second place, and Zambia, with two goals, were eliminated.
Malawi, making their WAFCON debut, will face the runners-up from Group D, either Ghana or Mali, in the final quarterfinal match in Rabat on Sunday. Nigeria will take on Group D winners Cameroon later that same day in Casablanca.
The tournament continues on Thursday with the final Group D fixtures: Mali vs Ghana at the Moulay Rachid Stadium, and Cape Verde vs Cameroon at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
Results – Wednesday, 5 August
Group C
Egypt 2–6 Nigeria
Malawi 1–2 Zambia