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2026 WAFCON: Malawi defy odds to reach quarter-finals
06th August, 2026 07:47 AM
Malawi secured a place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 despite falling 2-1 to Zambia in their final Group C encounter on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
Although the Scorchers ended the night on the losing side, they progressed to the knockout stage thanks to a superior goal difference after an eventful finish to the group.
Coming into the tournament for the first time in their history, Malawi defied the odds to top Group C standings ahead of reigning champions Nigeria, who defeated Egypt 4-2 in the group’s other fixture.
Zambia wasted no time making an impact, with star striker Barbra Banda finding the back of the net less than a minute after kick-off. Her powerful long-range strike marked her fifth goal of the tournament, strengthening her position as the competition’s top scorer.
The Copper Queens remained dangerous throughout the opening half and nearly extended their advantage in the 18th minute, but Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo reacted well to keep out Irene Khumalo’s free-kick.
Their second goal eventually arrived in the 37th minute. Margaret Belemu delivered a low cutback from the byline, allowing Prisca Chilufya to finish confidently and put Zambia firmly in control before halftime.
Facing elimination unless they found a way back, Malawi returned from the break with renewed determination and attacked with greater purpose.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 72nd minute when captain Tabitha Chawinga beat two defenders before firing a low shot past the goalkeeper to cut the deficit to 2-1 and keep Malawi’s qualification hopes alive.
The closing minutes produced chances at both ends as Zambia continued searching for another goal that could have altered the qualification picture, while Malawi fought to preserve the scoreline.
Kabange Mupopo came agonisingly close to adding a third for Zambia late in the match, but her close-range attempt struck the woodwork with the goalkeeper already beaten.
When the final whistle sounded, Malawi celebrated qualification for the quarter-finals despite the defeat, while Zambia’s journey in the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 came to an end.
