Malawi marked their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations debut with a memorable 3-2 victory over defending champions Nigeria, while Zambia produced a commanding display to thrash Egypt 6-0 in Tuesday’s Group C fixtures.
At the Stade Olympique de Rabat, Zambia began their campaign in emphatic fashion, with captain Barbra Banda stealing the spotlight by scoring four goals in a one-sided contest.
Racheal Nachula put the Copper Queens ahead from the penalty spot in the 25th minute. Zambia doubled their lead in the 60th minute when Banda converted another penalty before adding a third just three minutes later after being set up by Prisca Chiluba.
Banda completed her hat-trick in the 87th minute, while Eneless Phiri added the fifth goal in stoppage time. Banda rounded off the rout in the sixth minute of added time, finishing off an assist from Racheal Kundananji to seal a convincing opening win.
In the other Group C encounter at the Stade El Barid, tournament newcomers Malawi stunned the Super Falcons with a historic 3-2 triumph.
The Chawinga sisters inspired the victory, with Temwa Chawinga scoring twice and Tabitha Chawinga adding the third goal to hand Malawi an unforgettable first-ever WAFCON win.
Nigeria attempted a comeback through goals from Rasheedat Ajibade and Uchenna Kanu, but the defending champions were unable to avoid defeat as Malawi claimed all three points in a major upset.