Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has spoken for the first time since Nigeria’s shocking 3-2 defeat to Malawi at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), promising that the team will learn from the setback and return stronger.
The nine-time African champions suffered a surprise defeat in their Group C opener, leaving their title defence under immediate pressure.
Reacting in a post on social media on Thursday, July 30, Nnadozie admitted the result was painful but praised the fighting spirit of the team.
“This one hurts really bad. Not the result we wanted, but the fight was real. Left it all on the field, but wasn’t enough to get the three points,” she wrote.
“We take full responsibility for our performance against a very tough opponent. It stings, but we grow. Falls hurt, but we do not stay down.”
The goalkeeper ended her message on a positive note, saying: “Head high, heart full. Proud of this team, always.”
Her comments came after head coach Justin Madugu defended his players following the defeat, insisting the loss was a collective failure and not the fault of any individual.
“Chiamaka Nnadozie is a top-class goalkeeper. It wasn’t the fault of one player, we generally had a bad day as a team,” Madugu said.
The coach described the defeat as a wake-up call and expressed confidence that the Super Falcons have the quality and experience to recover.
“We have identified the areas we need to improve on, and we’ll go back to work immediately. I believe this team has the quality, character and experience to bounce back stronger,” he said.
Nigeria will now shift focus to a crucial Group C clash against Zambia on August 1, knowing that victory is vital to keep alive their hopes of winning a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
