By MK

The Malawi National Women’s team, the Scorchers began the 2024 Hollywoodbets Cosafa Women’s Championship title defence with a draw against the Mares of Botswana.

Drawing in their opening match has not moved Scorchers coach Lovemore Fazili who said he is optimistic of retaining the title despite.

Fazili employed a 4-5-1 formation, pushing Faith Chinzimu as centre-back with Leticia Chinyamula playing as a left back.

Botswana was the first to settle in the game but slowly Malawi took over and dominated the first half of the game.

From the many set pieces that Scorchers had in the game it was the seventh corner that materialised at 27th minute when Mary Chavinda laid a short corner to Chinzimu who unleashed a shot beating the Botswana keeper.

However, it was at 39 minutes when Botswana launched an attack that paid dividends, well positioned Laone Moloi slotted in home to level the scores and it was 1-all at half

At recess, Fazili took out Chavinda and Vanessa Chikupila for Catherine Kachala and Chisomo Banda.

Botswana came guns blazing in the second half forcing the Scorchers to defend a better part of it.

Speaking after the game, Fazili applauded his charges saying they gave it all and feels the future is bright.

When asked why he had alternated Chinyamula and Chinzimu, Fazili said Chinzimu is a natural defender despite playing as a midfielder in her club.

“Per our game plan, we needed her in that position which she has done so well no wonder she got the player of the match. For Leticia being a natural footer, she was a better option than the ones we had after Ireen Khumalo’s absence due to an injury and as a coach I am impressed regardless that she had a slow start to the game,” he said.

Malawi will need to win the remaining games with big margins to secure a semi final spot.

The Scorchers will play their next match against Madagascar on October 26th and will end with Mauritius on October 28th.

This year’s tournament has four groups and only group leaders will proceed to the knockout phase.