Fazili Describes Malawi’s WAFCON Quarter-Final Qualification as an Extraordinary Achievement
The Malawi national women’s football team, affectionately known as the Scorchers, has made history by qualifying for the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This remarkable feat was hailed by head coach Lovemore Fazili, especially considering it marks the team’s first-ever participation in this prestigious tournament held in Morocco.
In a dramatic turn of events, Malawi secured advancement to the knockout stages despite suffering a 2-1 defeat in their final group match against rivals Zambia. The Scorchers exhibited resilience and determination throughout the group stage, ultimately leading them to this historic quarter-final placement.
Zambia, making a formidable start to the match, saw their captain Barbra Banda score a stunning opener within the very first minute with a long-range strike, her fifth goal of the tournament. The Copper Queens continued to press, nearly extending their lead in the 18th minute when Ireen Lungu’s free-kick was deftly saved by Malawi’s goalkeeper, Mercy Sikelo.
Eight minutes before halftime, Zambia doubled its advantage when Margaret Belemu’s precise cutback found Prisca Chilufya, who scored, pushing the score to 2-0. However, Malawi rallied in the second half, with captain Tabitha Chawinga netting a goal that ignited hope and set the stage for a tense finish.
As Malawi prepares to face Ghana in the quarter-finals, it is clear that their journey in this tournament is more than just significant; it is a symbol of progress for women’s football in Malawi. Fazili expressed pride in the team’s performance, stating, “This is extraordinary, considering where we are coming from. The way we have performed in the group stage is very good, and the players and technical panel are happy with this.” He emphasized the achievement of finishing the group stage strongly against tough competitors.
Meanwhile, Zambia’s Football Association, led by President Keith Mweemba, acknowledged the disappointment of a first-round exit but praised the Copper Queens for their efforts. Mweemba noted that the team, despite scoring the highest number of goals in the group, faced elimination due to the tough competition they encountered. The association plans to shift its focus towards the upcoming Olympic qualifiers that commence in October, aiming for success in future tournaments.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled for July 26 to August 16, hosted across venues in Rabat and Casablanca, featuring the continent’s top 16 teams. The semi-finalists will not only compete for the continental crown but also earn coveted spots in the Brazil 2027 FIFA World Cup, heightening the stakes as the tournament unfolds.
Malawi has finished strong, and with Ghana next on the horizon, the Scorchers look to build on their historical achievements, while the Copper Queens will regroup and strategize for their future assignments in international football.
