05/08/2026
"Scorchers Target Perfect Group Stage Finish Against Zambia"____ Yalero Newspaper!
The Malawi National Women's Football Team will be aiming to complete the group stage with a flawless record when they take on neighbours Zambia in their final Group C match at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Wednesday.
The Scorchers head into the decisive encounter in impressive form after recording back-to-back victories over defending champions Nigeria and Egypt, leaving them at the top of the group with six points.
Although a draw would be enough to secure a place in the quarter-finals, head coach Lovemore Fazili insists his players will approach the match with victory in mind.
"We have prepared thoroughly for this game, and the players have responded positively throughout our training sessions. Everyone is eager to play, but only 11 can start, so we will field the team we believe gives us the best chance of winning," said Fazili.
The coach stressed that his side has no intention of settling for a draw despite knowing it would be enough to progress.
"Our objective is to win and keep another clean sheet. A draw would still be an acceptable outcome if things don't go according to plan, but our focus is on collecting all three points," he added.
Fazili believes securing a third straight victory would mark a memorable achievement for Malawi in their debut appearance at Africa's biggest women's football tournament.
"Winning all three group matches to finish on nine points would be a fantastic accomplishment for the team and for the country," he said.
The Scorchers have received a timely boost with the return of midfielder Asimenye Simwaka, whose presence has lifted spirits within the squad ahead of the crucial fixture.
"It is encouraging to have Asimenye back. Her return has strengthened the squad and given the players additional confidence," Fazili said.
However, Malawi will have to cope without defender Rose Alufandika, who is suspended after being sent off during the 3-1 victory over Egypt.
"We will certainly miss Rose, but we have capable replacements. The player coming in has experience in defence, so we are confident we can cope with her absence," explained the coach.
The two neighbouring sides have shared closely contested meetings in recent years. Their last encounter ended in a 1-1 draw during the Three Nations Tournament at Bingu National Stadium, while they also shared victories in two international friendlies played in February 2025, with Zambia winning the first match 2-0 before Malawi bounced back to claim a 3-2 victory in the second.
The Scorchers will now look to extend their unbeaten run, maintain top spot in Group C and book a place in the WAFCON quarter-finals with another positive performance against the Copper Queens.
