Malawi 0-0 Angola…
LUANDA-(MaraviPost)-Malawi Women’s National Football Team Head Coach, Lovemore Fazili, says the goalless draw against Angola in Luanda on Thursday has given his side renewed belief as they eye a historic qualification to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Scorchers, who dominated much of the first-leg encounter at Estádio 11 de Novembro, displayed impressive teamwork and attacking intent but were left frustrated after failing to find the back of the net despite several clear opportunities.
“We played better football than Angola. I expected us to score in the first half but luck was not on our side. However, I’m proud of the effort and discipline from the girls,” Fazili said after the match.
The experienced tactician remains optimistic that his side will complete the job in the return leg at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on October 28, where a victory would secure Malawi’s first-ever qualification to the continental finals.
“It’s not easy to play away from home but we managed to get a result. The players have promised to finish the job in front of our supporters. We are determined to make history,” Fazili added confidently.
The Scorchers took control from kickoff, with Rose Kabzere, Faith Chimzimu and Asimenye Simwaka combining well in attack.
Led by captain Tabitha Chawinga, Malawi’s fluid passing and high pressing forced Angola to sit deep for most of the game.
Chawinga came close in the 34th minute after her low shot rolled inches wide of the post.
The Scorchers’ best moment arrived midway through the second half when Chawinga’s pace and power carved open Angola’s defense to set up Simwaka, whose strike narrowly missed the target.
As the game wore on, Tabitha’s curling free-kick in the 84th minute was blocked by the wall summing up a frustrating night for Malawi’s forwards.
Despite the missed chances, Fazili was full of praise for his players’ overall discipline and determination.
“Our goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo was solid, the defense was composed and the midfield controlled the tempo. The forwards kept pressing. We played our game plan perfectly we just need to score at home,” he said.
The Scorchers are now expected to return home on Friday to resume training ahead of the decisive second leg.
The team will be banking on the electric atmosphere at Bingu National Stadium and the support of local fans to push them across the line.
Malawi has never qualified for the WAFCON finals before and a win next week would mark a groundbreaking moment for women’s football in the country one that could inspire a new generation of female footballers.
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