Frank Mojah Dzuwa

The Malawi Women’s National Under-20 team, the Young Scorchers, have advanced to the third round of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers after holding South Sudan to a 1-all draw in Juba on Friday afternoon.

The hosts took the lead in the 33rd minute through Nyamam Atem to finish the first half 1-0 ahead. But Malawi responded strongly after the break, with Enelesi Fabiano scoring in the 48th minute to level the match. The result secured a 3-1 aggregate victory for the Young Scorchers, following their 2-0 first-leg win on Tuesday.

After the game, head coach Maggie Chombo—Sadik said she was pleased with her players’ fighting spirit.

 “Let me thank the girl for the job well done. They put up much effort, and I knew that it will be tough game. We started the game on a slow note; I don’t know what their problem was. I knew Sudan would come with a full heart, that’s why you saw them scoring that goal,” said Chombo.

She further explained that the two matches have taught her the importance of having a good game plan when playing in such international competitions.

Malawi played both legs away in Juba due to unavailability of Bingu National Stadium.

The Young Scorchers will now meet Guinea-Bissau in the third round as they continue their journey towards the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Line-up

Ireen Sande, Maureen Keneth, Olivia Phikani, Talandira Chinyamula, Leticia Chinyamula (C), Victoria Mkwala, Asimenye Mwanyongo, Enelesi Fabiano, Funny Moyo, Sarah Mlimbika, Fatima Lali.