As Malawi edges closer to qualifying for their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the team has suffered a setback with striker Temwa Chawinga ruled out.
The Scorchers depart today for Luanda, where they will face Angola this Thursday, before the second leg on 28th October at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, Malawi.
Coach Lovemore Fazili had named eight foreign-based players in the squad, including team captain Tabitha Chawinga and her sister Temwa.
Last night, Temwa posted on her Facebook account that she would be unavailable for the Scorchers following an injury sustained while playing for her club, Kansas City.
She wrote: “I am heartbroken that I will not get to represent my country Malawi with the national team this coming week due to my injury. I am currently working with my team doctors and coaches at KC Current to get back on the field, taking it day at a time. Sending love to my Malawi team and wishing you the best of luck. Thank you for your support during this time.”
Malawi coach reacts
Reacting to the news, coach Fazili acknowledged that losing Temwa is a significant blow, given her prolific scoring ability.
“It is a big setback considering that she is one of our prolific strikers. However, we have plan B and the availability of her elder sister Tabitha will make up for her absence,” he said.
Temwa was instrumental in Malawi’s triumph at the 2023 COSAFA Women’s Championship, where she was named Player of the Tournament and finished as the top goal scorer.
This season, she has won the NWSL shield with Kansas City Current and is currently the top scorer with 15 goals in 23 games.
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