Despite the economic challenges facing the country, Malawians are basking in and celebrating the Scorchers’ exploits at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where they have reached the final.
For the first time, Malawi will be represented at the Women’s World Cup.
Not only that, the Scorchers also stand a realistic chance of winning the Wafcon.
The two feats have given a tired nation reason to celebrate.
It has been a joyous two weeks for Malawians, who have packed pubs for every fixture despite games starting late.
Barman Andrew Kandoje Samuel, who operates at Nevada Pub in Biwi, Lilongwe, and is making money as a result of increased patronage because of the games, is rooting for total victory.
“As a country, we have endured a lot of problems we needed some kind of success to cheer us up and the Scorchers have done just that. I hope with all my heart that we win the Wafcon to give people a little bit of joy. People have really been struggling because of the economic situation we’re in.”
For politicians, the Scorchers’ success is also a welcome distraction from the many social and economic challenges facing the country.
President Peter Mutharika has led the nation in congratulating the Scorchers after reaching the final, and so too the First Lady, Madam Gertrude Mutharika.
“Congratulations to the Malawi Women’s National Football team for reaching the finals. Now only 90 minutes separate us from claiming the ultimate prize in Africa’s women football. Let’s bring the trophy home,” reads a message from the First Lady’s Facebook page.
That is how Malawians have united in rooting for the Scorchers, hoping for victory, from the country’s leadership to a barman in Biwi.
The Scorchers’ success has also drawn praise from other sports associations such as netball and boxing.
“Proud of you Scorchers. First Wafcon appearance, first ever final. What a story! One more task to complete it. Go enjoy the final and bring the trophy home,” reads a message in NAM Facebook.
Hit by economic stagnation and soaring prices of food items, Malawians have put hardship aside to enjoy the Scorchers’ run in Morocco, and the trophy might just be coming back.
And the players know how a win will make the nation happy, as Madyina Ngulube put it in an interview soon after the Algeria game.
“I am so excited to have reached the finals. We came here to compete and not just participate. We will fight to the end. We are representing millions of Malawians and we will fight for them. This is our time,” she said.
