First Lady Gertrude Mutharika has hailed the Scorchers for progressing to the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) in their maiden appearance and urged them to remain focused.
The Malawi National Women’s Football Team is now a game away from reaching the semi-finals to qualify for the Fifa Women’s World Cup.
The Scorchers booked their place in the last eight of the continental showpiece after an impressive group-stage campaign that saw them top Group C ahead of African powerhouses Nigeria’s Super Falcons and Zambia’s Copper Queens.
In a congratulatory message, Mutharika described the team’s achievement as an inspiration to millions of Malawians.
She said: “Heartfelt congratulations to the Malawi Women’s National Football Team, the Scorchers, for progressing to the quarter-finals of the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco.
“Your achievements continue to inspire millions of football-loving Malawians across the nation, including myself, your biggest fan.”
However, the First Lady warned the players against losing concentration, saying their biggest challenge is still ahead.
“The group stage is done. Now, let’s stay focused on reaching the semi-finals and securing our first-ever Fifa Women’s World Cup appearance,” she said.
The Scorchers’ historic Wafcon quarter-final qualification has sparked nationwide celebrations.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Alfred Gangata also expressed his delight after qualification, saying: “My people, football. We have qualified with power. God is good.”
