By Wa Ganyu
The National Women’s Championship in Malawi witnessed intense battles as teams from different regions competed for glory. Blantyre-based teams faced a tough challenge against the dominant Central Region sides, and unfortunately, they were eliminated in the quarter-finals.
Ascent Academy Triumphs
In a thrilling quarter-final match, Ascent Academy clashed with defending champions Kukoma Mtopwa Queens. Ascent Academy displayed remarkable skill, outclassing their opponents with a convincing 4-0 victory. Atuweni Njilima opened the scoring early, breaking the deadlock at 6 minutes. Alefa Chimbeta doubled the lead just two minutes later, putting Ascent Academy firmly in control by halftime.
Leticia Chinyamula and Alefa Chimbeta continued to trouble the Amaghetto ladies throughout the first half. Despite Mtopwa’s efforts to stage a comeback in the second half, their lack of clinical finishing cost them dearly. Chimbeta completed her brace at 73’, and Rose Alufandika sealed the win with a goal at 86’. Ascent Academy’s victory ensured their record of reaching the semi-finals since their debut in the tournament.
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets falls to MDF Lioness
All eyes turned to FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, the sole representative from the southern region. They faced MDF Lioness in the second final. However, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets had to play without their star striker, Vanessa Chikupila, who was now in Zambia playing for Green Buffaloes. Additionally, Mary Chavinda, another key player in their rich history, was absent.
Despite a shaky start, MDF Lioness took the lead through their top scorer, Fazila Chiyembekeza, at 27’. The slender lead held until halftime. Ruth Tambala doubled the advantage at 66’, raising hopes of a historic semifinal berth for the soldiers. Sharon Dzimau’s long-range effort pulled one back for the Palestrina ladies.
However, it was Chiyembekeza’s beautiful pass to Latia Magombo that restored the two-goal lead for the ‘Chiwoko’ ladies. Chiyembekeza capitalized on Bernadetta Mkandawire’s mistake to complete her brace at 86’. This victory marked a significant milestone: MDF Lioness secured their first-ever semifinal spot, while FCB Nyasa Big Bullets missed out on the semis.
The National Women’s Championship continues to showcase the talent and passion of Malawi’s female footballers.
