Malawi women’s national team coach Lovemore Fazili says his side is targeting a place in the semifinals of the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which kicks off on 25th July 2026 and runs to 16th August 2026.
Speaking during the unveiling of his 23-member squad for the tournament, Fazili said the team has addressed the mistakes made in previous tournaments and is confident of producing a strong performance at this year’s competition.
“Our targets as players and coaches: we need to do better in our group and reach quarterfinals. From there, we will be aiming to reach the semi-finals. We will not end there, but I will not tell you [our next target], but you should call me when we hit the semi-finals, and I will tell you our next target,” said Fazili.
When asked whether he had done enough homework on Malawi’s group-stage opponents, Fazili said he was well aware of the challenge they pose, particularly nine-time champions Nigeria.
“I know much about Zambia: their weaknesses and strengths. For Nigeria, we shouldn’t underrate them; they are a big side. I will not tell you more because it’s like we are revealing how we have prepared,” he said.
Fazili has included star striker Temwa Chawinga in his squad after she missed several of Malawi’s recent international matches. The coach said the forward is committed to representing her country.
“I talked to her, and she is ready to represent the country. I spoke to her and FAM officials also talked to her, we will meet her in Morocco on the 17th,” he said.
Malawi will open their WAFCON campaign against Nigeria on July 28 before facing Egypt on August 1. The Scorchers will conclude their Group C fixtures against Zambia on August 5.
READ ALSO: Haalubono dismisses Häuptle concerns as Copper Queens unveil WAFCON squad
