By Sports Reporter

Malawi’s senior women’s national football team, the Scorchers, have written a new chapter in the country’s football history after securing a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to regional rivals Zambia.

The result was enough to see the Scorchers progress to the knockout stage in what is their maiden appearance at Africa’s biggest women’s football tournament.Scorchers Depart for Morocco Friendly

Although Zambia claimed victory on the day, Malawi’s fighting spirit was rewarded through a crucial goal by captain Tabitha Chawinga. Her second-half strike proved decisive, ensuring the Scorchers finished with the goal difference needed to book a historic place in the last eight.

The qualification marks one of the greatest achievements in the history of Malawian women’s football. Having reached the WAFCON finals for the first time, the Scorchers have now gone a step further by advancing to the quarter-finals, demonstrating remarkable resilience against some of the continent’s strongest teams.

Throughout the tournament, the Scorchers have impressed with disciplined defending, determination and teamwork, while experienced stars such as Tabitha Chawinga have continued to lead by example. Her vital goal against Zambia could prove to be one of the most important in Malawi’s football history.NBM plc flies three to WAFCON

Football fans across Malawi celebrated the achievement, praising the team for making the nation proud and proving that they can compete with Africa’s elite.

Attention will now turn to the quarter-finals, where the Scorchers will aim to continue their fairytale campaign and edge closer to another historic milestone.

Regardless of the outcome in the next round, the team’s performance at the 2026 WAFCON has already inspired a new generation of female footballers and reaffirmed the rapid growth of women’s football in Malawi.NBM plc launches ‘Waku WAFCON’ promo

With belief, determination and the support of an entire nation behind them, the Scorchers remain determined to keep their historic WAFCON journey alive.

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