Andrew Mdzumira

The best moment to be in Malawi, mainly at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe where the Malawi Women’s National Football team have made history.

The team has qualified for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) for the first time in history after defeating Angola 2–0 on Tuesday afternoon.

Both goals came in the second half through striker Faith Chimzimu, who produced a stellar performance to seal Malawi’s place at the continental tournament to be hosted in Morocco.

The first half ended goalless; with Angola missing a golden opportunity to take the lead after Patricia Mingo Afoso Siteco failed to convert a penalty. Her powerful shot bounced off the side post.

The first leg in Angola had ended goalless only to finish the game in Malawi.

The Scorchers displayed composure and tactical discipline, dominating possession and creating several scoring chances before Chimzimu’s decisive strikes sending the home fans into jubilation.

Their coach Lovemore Fazili has described his side’s recent match as both tough and impressive, saying the players created several scoring opportunities in the first half but struggled to convert them.

“It was a physically demanding game, but our resilience made the difference,” said Fazili, adding: “The National Bank Women’s Premiership has also played a big role in improving our players’ performance, and I am confident we will do well in Morocco.”

Team captain Tabitha Chawinga expressed her excitement over the team’s historic Wafcon qualification.

“I am very happy that we’ve qualified for this tournament for the first time ever,” said Chawinga. “I would like to thank Football Association of Malawi (FAM) for their continued support and investment in women’s football. Even when we didn’t perform well in past games, they never gave up on us.”

Chawinga urged Malawians to rally behind the team, emphasizing that the squad has quality players capable of competing at the highest level. She added that upcoming friendly matches will further strengthen the team’s readiness for the continental competition.

“I believe with more international friendlies and proper preparation, we will perform even better in Morocco,” she concluded.

Former Flames player Peterkins Kaira described the qualification as a landmark achievement for Malawi football.

“This is a proud moment for the country. Angola is a strong side, but the experience of our players who play abroad made the difference,” said Kaira.

Malawi Starting Line-up

Mercy Sikelo (GK), Chimwemwe Madise, Rose Kabzere, Asimenye Simwaka, Sabina Thom, Tabitha Chawinga (C), Vanessa Chikupira, Faith Chimzimu, Ireen Khumalo, Rose Alufandika, Bernadetta Mkandawire.