Scorchers in historic Wafcon final after outclassing Algeria
The Scorchers have defied the odds and made history by reaching the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) final on their maiden appearance with a magnificent 3-1 victory over Algeria in a dramatic semi-final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco last evening.
The Chawinga sisters were the assassins with captain Tabitha netting a brace while Temwa got her fifth goal.
Algeria scored through Ikram Adjabi.
In a match filled with goals, two red cards and relentless attacking football, the Malawi National Women’s Football Team showed remarkable character.
The Scorchers made their intentions clear from the opening whistle when Tabitha tested the Algerian goalkeeper Chloe N’Gazi.
Malawi then survived a major scare at the other end, with Benedetta Mkandawire producing a crucial block to deny a goal-bound effort after goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo left her line.
Malawi gained a crucial advantage in the 22st minute when Algeria full-back Morgane Belkhiter was shown a straight red card for a goal-denying foul on Tabitha.
The numerical advantage soon paid off as just ten minutes later, Tabitha produced a moment of brilliance with a spectacular overhead kick, converting a corner from Rose Kadzere after Asimenye had headed the ball towards goal.
Then just before recess, Faith Chinzimu split the Algerian defence with a superb pass, sending Temwa through to double Malawi’s advantage.
But just before half-time, the match brought another twist as Kadzere was shown a straight red card after VAR review, meaning the two sides would contest the remainder of the match with 10 players each.
In the second-half, Algeria seized the opportunity and pulled a goal back in the 60th minute through Ikram Aljabi, who connected a free kick with a powerful half-volley.
The Scorchers, however, refused to panic and coach Lovemore Fazili responded with substitutions, bringing on Vanessa Chikupila and Leticia Chinyamula for Asimenye and Chikondi Gondwe.
The substitution paid off as in 76th minute came the moment that sent Malawi into footballing archives when Tabitha struck again to keep the match beyond Algeria.
After receiving the ball from Mkandawire near the centre circle, the France-based Malawi star embarked on a brilliant run into the Algerian penalty area beating two defenders, before firing the ball through the stunned N’Gazi’s legs.
Malawi defended their advantage through the closing stages, with Madyina Nguluwe replacing Faith Chinzimu and Mercy Mkandawire coming on for Temwa as the clock ticked towards a historic final qualification.
After the final whistle, back home, the celebrations across the country reverberated at various points where the fans were watching the match.
Meanwhile, NBS Bank plc responded to the historic feat by spoiling the Scorchers with K245 million, with each player set to pocket K7 million.
NBS Bank plc chief executive officer Temwani Simwaka in a statement said: “The Scorchers have demonstrated courage, resilience and an unwavering determination to succeed.”
