Formed in 2002, the Malawi National Women’s Football Team has made history by qualifying for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) finals for the first time. The tournament will be held in Morocco next year from 17 March to 3 April.
The Scorchers sealed their historic qualification after defeating Angola 2-0 at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Tuesday afternoon.
After being held to a goalless draw in Luanda last week, Malawi completed the job at home thanks to a late brace from Faith Chimzimu in the 80th and 81st minutes, securing a famous victory and a ticket to Morocco.
Speaking to journalists after the match, Scorchers captain Tabitha Chawinga said: “This is the moment, this is the time we need to celebrate. These fans deserve more because they have been behind us since.”
The striker, who plies her trade in France with Lyon, expressed confidence in the team’s potential to compete at the continental showpiece: “We have a team to give results. Of course, we have some problems here and there, and I hope coaches have taken note of those.”
She added: “I should also thank the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) for the support since day one, they have given us games to prepare for this match.”
Meanwhile, head coach Lovemore Fazili praised his players for their determination and resilience, acknowledging the team’s tactical adjustments in the second half.
“We talked at half about what to do and it worked. We scored two without conceding, that is fine and I should thank my players including my captain Tabitha. This is history and we need to celebrate,” he said.
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