Rachael Kaphaizi

Following a heavy semi-final defeat to Australia, Malawi Women’s National Team head coach Lovemore Fazili is set to ring changes as the Scorchers push for a third-place finish against India at the FIFA Series in Kenya on Wednesday.

The loss exposed key gaps, but Fazili says adjustments have been made, with the most notable change expected in goal.

Goalkeeper Esther Maulidi, who impressed after coming on for Mercy Sikelo against Australia, is likely to start.

“We have to consider a change in goal. Esther came in after Mercy went off, and she did well. She gave us what we had been looking for and deserves another chance,” said Fazili.

Changes will not be limited to the goalkeeper. Fazili confirmed that both the formation and starting XI will be adjusted to counter a disciplined Indian side known for its structured 4-4-2 pressing system.

“Tactically and technically, India are a team that plays as a unit. We have prepared with that in mind, and whatever approach we take will be a positive one,” he said.

The coach emphasised that the defeat to Australia should be viewed as a learning experience rather than a reflection of the team’s overall quality.

“The players were not poor in the first match, although some struggled. Now everyone is more settled, and we expect each player to give their best.”

The bronze play-off also serves as an important test ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, a key pathway to qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. With star forwards Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga still absent, Fazili remains encouraged by the squad’s growing depth.

India, which lost to hosts Kenya in their semi-final, offers Malawi an opportunity to finish the FIFA Series on a high and build momentum heading into the WAFCON qualifiers.