Rachael Kaphaizi

Blantyre, Malawi – The CAF Women’s Champions League 2024, COSAFA Qualifiers kicked off today at Blantyre’s Mpira Stadium with two exciting matches setting the tone for the tournament.

Herentals Queens FC of Zimbabwe made a strong start, defeating FC Ongos Ladies of Namibia 3-1.

Goals from Maudy Mafuruse, Tumbare Egness and Melody Chikore sealed the win for Herentals while Ndapewa Kateta scored a consolation goal for FC Ongos in the added time.

In a second match for the day saw Green Buffaloes Women of Zambia defeating South Africa side University of the Western Cape through a lone goal from Natasha Nanyangwe who headed home a well taken corner, 1-0 it ended.  

Speaking after a 1-0 defeat, Thinasonke Mbuli Western Cape’s coach, emphasised the need for improvement as they prepare to meet Herentals Queens.

“Going to the next game I think we must get out of the shade and play our normal game. Our next match is a must win game for us,” she said.

After the match Buffaloes coach Carol Kanyemba expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance.

“The girls did most of the things we told them at least we were able not to concede, that was the most important thing that we wanted,” she said.

The tournament continues tomorrow, with more thrilling matches as Malawi’s Ascent Academy, the 2023 National champions, are yet to make their first appearance against Young Buffaloes from Eswatini.