Wa Ganyu
Malawi 55-58 South Africa
Finally there is hope in the Malawi Netball Team, The Queens, following a close contest against South Africa in the Vitality Netball Nations Cup 2025.
The Queens, despite a defeat today, made fans happy looking at the goal margin which they closed well and they were on the verge of getting a win or a draw.
Last year during the Test Series in South Africa against the same opposition, Malawi lost miserably in all three games; 69-24, 69-38 and 68-31 and the story has changed this time around losing with only 3 baskets.
Q1: Malawi 14-17 South Africa
Q2: Malawi 29-31 South Africa
Q3: Malawi 40-46 South Africa
Q4: Malawi 55-58 South Africa
First quarter
The Queens had their first centre pass and took control of the first three minutes to lead 3-0. But the Spar Proteas quickly recovered to take advantage of turnovers. The Queens finished strongly by narrowing the gap. But it was the Spar Proteas that led at the end of the quarter.
Second quarter
A tight quarter that saw the Queens turn on the style to lead with Tendai Masamba (GK) and Towera Vinkhumbo (GD) at the back a marvel to watch making big interceptions but South Africa had a knife under their sleeve as they worked out a strategy to reduce turnovers and restore the lead.
Third quarter
A throw and rush for the Queens in the quarter proved costly. They easily gave away balls and brief out of court treatment to Takondwa Lwazi (C) due to injury before returning after some minutes did not help matters.
Malawi coach Peace Chawinga was happy with the performance of her girls saying: “They fought so hard, I am happy with my girls, we will work out our mistakes.”
Malawi’s next game is a third place battle tomorrow against Uganda while South Africa will face England for the championship. South Africa is without a loss after beating Uganda and England plus Malawi today.
Malawi has one win over Uganda, lost to Uganda and South Africa.
Line-up
GS – Joyce Mvula
GA – Ethel Ng’ambie
WA – Thandie Galleta
C – Takondwa Lwazi
WD – Grace Mwafulirwa
GD – Towera Vinkhumbo
GK – Tendai Masamba
Sub
Martha Dambo
Shabel Bengo
Thocco Makunganya
Ruth Kaliyenda
Florence Gamuka
