Malawi have reached the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final for the first time after beating Algeria 3-1 in a thrilling semi final in Rabat.
The Chawinga sisters once again led the charge, scoring three goals between them as the Scorchers continued their remarkable run at the tournament.
Malawi entered the competition as debutants and the lowest ranked team in the tournament. However, they have defied expectations at every stage and now stand one victory away from lifting the WAFCON trophy.
Their latest victory added Algeria to a growing list of major opponents they have defeated in Morocco. Earlier in the tournament, Malawi stunned defending champions Nigeria before also overcoming Ghana.
The scoreline, however, does not tell the full story of a frantic contest. Both teams created clear chances, while two first half red cards followed lengthy VAR reviews.
Malawi Chawinga Sisters Continue to Dominate
Algeria suffered an early setback when Morgane Belkhiter received a red card for denying Tabitha Chawinga a clear scoring opportunity.
Malawi soon made the numerical advantage count. In the 33rd minute, Tabitha produced a stunning overhead kick that struck the crossbar before bouncing down and spinning back over the goal line.
The goal gave Malawi the lead and added another memorable moment to their extraordinary tournament.
Temwa Chawinga then doubled the advantage in the first minute of first half stoppage time. The forward continued her outstanding form and gave Algeria a huge challenge heading into the break.
Malawi’s joy was short lived, however. Rose Kadzere received a red card before half time after VAR reviewed a studs up challenge.
Algeria returned from the interval with renewed belief and quickly reduced the deficit. Ikram Adjabi scored to give Les Fennecs hope of completing a comeback.
The match became increasingly open as both teams pushed for another goal. Algeria created opportunities, but Malawi continued to threaten on the counter.
Tabitha eventually ended Algeria’s hopes by scoring her second goal of the match. Her finish restored Malawi’s two goal advantage and sparked wild celebrations.
The result sends Malawi into Sunday’s final, where they will face either hosts Morocco or Cameroon at 19:00 GMT.
The Scorchers have already secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil after reaching the semi finals. Now, they have the chance to complete their remarkable debut by winning the biggest prize in African women’s football.
Malawi’s run also marks a major moment for the expanded 16 team WAFCON. Apart from the inaugural 1998 edition, they are the first debutants to reach the final.
The Chawinga sisters have played a huge role in that achievement. Tabitha helped OL Lyonnes win another French title last season, while Temwa claimed her second Golden Boot and MVP award with the Kansas City Current in the NWSL.
Their tournament form has now justified all the pre-competition attention. The sisters have scored eight of Malawi’s 12 goals, with Temwa contributing five and Tabitha three.
Their pace, power and movement have caused problems for every defence they have faced. Ranked 153rd in the world before the tournament, Malawi have now taken WAFCON by storm.
One final hurdle remains, but after everything they have achieved in Morocco, the Chawinga sisters and the Scorchers will believe they can beat anyone.
