Temwa Chawinga inspired another memorable victory as Malawi defeated Egypt 3-1 in their second Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Group C match on Saturday in Rabat, Trybal News reports.
The star forward set up one goal and scored another to help the tournament surprise package move provisionally to the top of the group and within reach of a historic quarter final place.
Malawi followed their stunning victory over defending champions Nigeria with another outstanding performance. The result means the debutants will qualify for the knockout stage if Nigeria fail to beat Zambia later on Saturday in the Moroccan capital.
The Scorchers made a bright start and deservedly took the lead after 35 minutes. Chawinga delivered a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Rose Kadzere, who calmly beat goalkeeper Maha Shehata for her first goal of the tournament.
Malawi doubled their advantage deep into first half stoppage time. Faith Chinzimu finished confidently from close range to cap an impressive attacking move and send her side into the break with a commanding 2-0 lead.
The game took a dramatic turn seven minutes into the second half when Rose Alufandika received a straight red card. The defender brought down Habiba Essam as the last player, forcing Malawi to play the remainder of the match with 10 women.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Malawi refused to sit back. Instead, they extended their lead in the 69th minute through Chawinga. The Kansas City forward won a race for the ball with Shehata before heading into the empty net to score her first goal of the tournament.
Egypt finally found a breakthrough two minutes later. Eman Kassem rose highest to head a free kick beyond goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo, scoring the Pharaohs’ first goal of this year’s competition.
However, the goal came too late to spark a comeback as Malawi held firm to seal another famous victory and continue their remarkable campaign.
The defeat confirmed Egypt’s elimination from the tournament at the group stage for the third time, following similar exits in 1998 and 2016. The Pharaohs have now suffered consecutive defeats after opening their campaign with a heavy 6-0 loss to Nigeria, leaving them without a point.
Malawi now sit in a strong position to reach the quarter finals and could secure qualification depending on the outcome of Nigeria’s clash with Zambia.
Egypt, meanwhile, will play for pride when they face Zambia in their final Group C match next Wednesday.
