By God’sbest Christ’sfullness
Super Falcons midfielder Esther Okoronkwo has attributed Nigeria’s 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening Group C match at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations to a poor start by the team.
The defending champions suffered a surprise loss as Malawi’s Chawinga sisters, Temwa and Tabitha, scored all three goals. Temwa netted twice, while Tabitha added the third to hand the tournament debutants a memorable victory.
Nigeria responded through Rasheedat Ajibade and substitute Uchenna Kanu, but the Super Falcons were unable to complete a comeback.
Speaking after the match, Okoronkwo admitted the team lacked intensity at the start and said the players must improve before their next fixture.
She said the Super Falcons would review their performance, correct their mistakes and return stronger in the remaining group matches.
Okoronkwo also questioned the decision not to review a penalty appeal after she was brought down in the box but said she would not dwell on the incident.
The defeat leaves Nigeria under pressure in their title defence as they seek to revive their campaign in their next Group C match.
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