By Suleman Chitera

Silver Strikers Ladies have made a winning start to the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League/COSAFA qualifiers after fighting back from a goal down to beat Mozambique’s Costa do Sol 2-1 in Gaborone, Botswana, this afternoon.

The Malawian champions showed character and determination to overturn the deficit, securing three valuable points in a tightly contested opening encounter.

Costa do Sol initially put Silver Strikers Ladies under pressure and managed to take the lead, leaving the Malawian side with a difficult task of finding a way back into the match.

However, the Silver Ladies refused to surrender.

Defender Ireen Khumalo emerged as the catalyst for the comeback, producing a moment of quality in the second half when she converted a free kick to restore parity.

The equaliser breathed fresh life into the Malawian side, who continued to push forward in search of a decisive goal.

Costa do Sol’s task became even more difficult after they were reduced to 10 players, allowing Silver Strikers Ladies to take greater control as the match entered its closing stages.

Just when it appeared the contest could end in a draw, substitute Grace Kakagula delivered the decisive moment.

Kakagula found the back of the net in stoppage time to complete a dramatic comeback and give Silver Strikers Ladies a crucial 2-1 victory.

The result provides an important boost to Silver’s campaign as they look to secure a place in the next stage of the continental competition.

The Malawian side, however, will face a significantly tougher test in their second match when they take on Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday.

Sundowns will present a stern challenge, meaning Silver Strikers Ladies will need another disciplined and determined performance if they are to maintain their winning momentum.

For now, the comeback victory over Costa do Sol gives the Silver Ladies confidence and an early advantage as they pursue their ambition of representing Malawi on the continental stage.

A late winner, a fighting spirit and three precious points — Silver Strikers Ladies have announced their arrival in Botswana in style.