By Suleman Chitera

Supporters who gathered at AJ’s Lounge in Blantyre for a National Bank of Malawi (NBM) watch party experienced an emotional rollercoaster on Wednesday as Malawi’s Scorchers secured a place in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The event, organised by NBM plc, brought football fans together to watch Malawi’s Group C clash against Zambia. The atmosphere turned tense after the Scorchers fell 2-0 behind, raising fears that their quarter-final hopes were slipping away.

However, striker Tabitha Chawinga pulled one goal back to make it 2-1, a result that proved enough for Malawi to progress to the last eight after finishing top of Group C on the head-to-head rule.NBM plc Watch Parties boosts Scorchers’ WAFCON home morale

After the final whistle, fans anxiously waited for official confirmation before celebrating as Malawi’s qualification was announced. The mood quickly shifted from disappointment to joyousness.

One of the supporters, Boyd Mkandawire, described the experience as an emotional ride.

“It was a game full of emotions. When we went two goals down, we thought our dream was over, but the team showed great determination. We are proud of the Scorchers for making history, and we thank NBM for creating an opportunity for fans to come together and support the team,” said Mkandawire.

National Bank of Malawi Product Development Manager Ibrahim Chapeyama said the bank was delighted to celebrate the team’s achievement with its customers.NBM plc unveils 2 ‘Waku WAFCON’ grand prize winners

“Although these are not the exact results that we wanted, as we expected a win against Zambia, but as NBM plc, we are proud of the Scorchers for representing Malawi so well on the continental stage. Their qualification is a proud moment for the nation, and we are pleased to have shared this experience with our customers and football fans,” he said.

Chapeyama added that the bank remains committed to giving customers memorable experiences beyond banking services.

“We will continue creating extraordinary experiences for our customers, and we are looking forward to taking future watch parties to different parts of the country so that more Malawians can celebrate together,” he said.NBM plc Watch Parties boosts Scorchers’ WAFCON home morale