Malawi National Women’s Team, Scorchers, have secured their place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 (WAFCON), despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Zambia in their final Group C match on Wednesday evening.
The Scorchers advanced on goal difference after a dramatic conclusion to the group, finishing top of the standings ahead of defending champions Nigeria, who defeated Egypt 4-2 in the other Group C fixture.
Zambia hit the ground running taking the lead inside the opening minute through Barbra Banda.
The Copper Queens then doubled their lead eight minutes before the break when Margaret Belemu cut the ball back from the line for Prisca Chilufya, who fired home to hand Zambia a commanding 2-0 lead.
Knowing a goal could prove decisive in the battle for qualification, Malawi emerged after the restart with greater urgency.
Their efforts paid off in the 72nd minute when Tabitha Chawinga dribbled past two defenders before drilling a low finish beyond the goalkeeper to reduce the deficit.
The final whistle confirmed the Scorchers progression despite the loss, while the Copper Queens saw their 2026 WAFCON campaign come to an end.
Nigeria finished second in Group C after a 6-2 win over Egypt.
By Frank Kandu
