By Angu Lesley Ngwa Akonwi
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
Malawi captain Tabitha Chawinga says the Scorchers are ready to “light up Morocco” after sealing a historic first-ever qualification for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Scorchers wrote a new chapter in their football story on Tuesday afternoon, defeating Angola 2-0 at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe to qualify 2-0 on aggregate.
After a goalless draw in Luanda, Malawi found their rhythm late on, with Faith Chimzimu scoring twice in two minutes — in the 80th and 81st — to spark jubilant scenes and confirm their maiden ticket to Morocco 2026.
“This is the moment, this is the time we need to celebrate,” Chawinga said after the final whistle. “These fans deserve more because they have been behind us since.”
The 28-year-old forward, who plays for Olympique Lyonnais Féminin in France, believes her team can make a real statement on the continental stage next year.
“We have a team to give results,” she said confidently. “Of course, we have some problems here and there, and I hope coaches have taken note of those. But with unity, we can achieve even more.”
Chawinga also paid tribute to the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) for their investment and belief in the team.
“I should thank FAM for the support since day one. They have given us games to prepare for this match,” she added.
Head coach Lovemore Fazili credited his players for their determination and discipline, explaining that halftime adjustments proved decisive.
“We talked at half about what to do and it worked,” Fazili said. “We scored two without conceding, that is fine, and I should thank my players including my captain Tabitha. This is history and we need to celebrate.”
Formed in 2002, the Malawi Women’s National Team’s journey to their first WAFCON finals marks a 22-year wait for continental recognition.
And in Morocco, the Scorchers could showcase a unique family story — the potential appearance of the Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa, much like the Payne sisters who represented Nigeria together at the 2022 edition.
“It’s our time,” Tabitha smiled. “We are going to Morocco not just to participate, but to compete.”
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