LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s Women’s National Football Team, the Scorchers, have made history by qualifying for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) for the very first time after defeating Angola 2–0 at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Tuesday afternoon.
Star striker Faith Chinzimu was the hero of the day, scoring both goals that sealed Malawi’s spot in next year’s continental showpiece, which will be hosted in Morocco.
The Scorchers went into the second leg knowing they needed a win at all costs after playing to a goalless draw in the first leg last week at Estadio 11 de Novembro in Luanda, Angola.
The first half in Lilongwe ended without goals despite Angola being awarded a penalty in the 39th minute, which they failed to convert. The Malawian side showed resilience and tactical discipline throughout the match.
It was not until the 80th minute that the deadlock was broken when Chinzimu calmly finished off a brilliant pass from captain Tabitha Chawinga, sending the packed stadium into wild celebrations. Barely a minute later, Chinzimu struck again to double the lead and secure qualification.
Speaking after the match, Scorchers captain Tabitha Chawinga said the victory was proof that the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) and National Bank’s investment in the team is yielding results.
“This win shows that our sponsors’ support is not in vain. We’ve played eight strength-testing games in preparation for this tie, and that really helped build our confidence,” said Chawinga.
Meanwhile, Scorchers head coach Lovemore Fazili admitted that the match was tough but praised his players for their determination and hard work.
“It was not easy because Angola came here desperate for a win but I thank God and my players for their great effort. We’ve made history by qualifying for WAFCON,” Fazili said, also commending FAM for organizing strength-testing matches that prepared the team well.
The Scorchers will represent Malawi at the 2026 WAFCON finals in Morocco, scheduled for March next year a monumental milestone for the country’s women’s football.
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