By Suleman Chitera

Malawi’s Scorchers have made history after reaching the semi-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and securing the country’s first-ever qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The historic achievement was sealed after Malawi defeated Ghana 2-1 in a thrilling WAFCON quarter-final played at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.

Ghana took an early lead, but the Scorchers responded with determination as Temwa Chawinga and Rose Kadzere found the back of the net to complete a dramatic comeback.Scorchers attribute WAFCON win to NBM plc support

The victory sent Malawi into the WAFCON semi-finals for the first time and, more importantly, guaranteed the Scorchers a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Temwa Chawinga Leads Malawi’s Comeback

After falling behind early in the quarter-final, Malawi refused to panic.

The Scorchers continued to press Ghana and eventually found the breakthrough through star forward Temwa Chawinga, who once again proved her importance to the national team.

Rose Kadzere then struck to complete Malawi’s comeback and put the Scorchers within touching distance of the semi-finals.

The final whistle sparked celebrations among the players, technical team and Malawian supporters as the national team achieved one of the biggest milestones in the country’s football history.

First FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualification

The victory has written a new chapter in Malawian football.NBM plc, Scorchers donate food items to Mai Mbambande elderly shelter

For the first time, the Malawi women’s national football team will compete at the FIFA Women’s World Cup finals.

The 2027 tournament will be hosted by Brazil, giving Malawian football its opportunity to compete on the biggest stage in women’s football.

The qualification is also a major reward for the growth of women’s football in Malawi and the continued progress of the Scorchers on the continental stage.

Scorchers Face Algeria in WAFCON Semi-Final

Malawi’s historic campaign is not over.

The Scorchers will now turn their attention to the WAFCON semi-final, where they will face Algeria.

With a place in the final at stake, Malawi will be hoping to continue its remarkable run and move one step closer to lifting the continental title.

The team will enter the semi-final with growing confidence after overcoming Ghana in a match that demonstrated the Scorchers’ resilience and fighting spirit.

A Defining Moment for Malawi Football

The Scorchers’ qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup represents a landmark moment for Malawi.

The team has not only secured a place among Africa’s top women’s football nations but has also created history by taking Malawi to the Women’s World Cup for the first time.

For Malawians at home and abroad, the achievement provides a major moment of national pride.Mixed emotions at NBM plc watch party as Scorchers reach WAFCON Quarter-finals

The Scorchers now have another opportunity to make history when they meet Algeria in the WAFCON semi-final.

Malawi’s dream of reaching the FIFA Women’s World Cup has become reality. The Scorchers are now chasing an even bigger prize — the WAFCON title.