Malawi continued their remarkable debut campaign at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Sunday, defeating Ghana 2-1 to reach the semi-finals and secure qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 for the first time.
The Scorchers, competing at their first-ever Women’s AFCON, produced another stunning upset after previously defeating defending champions Nigeria and overcoming Egypt in the group stage.
Ghana made a fast start and took the lead in the seventh minute through Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, putting the Black Queens in control early in the contest.
However, Malawi responded just five minutes later. Captain and star forward Temwa Chawinga found the equaliser in the 12th minute, restoring parity and giving the Scorchers renewed confidence.
The Black Queens came out strongly after the break and appeared to have retaken the lead when Doris Boaduwaa found the back of the net. However, the goal was ruled out following a VAR review, leaving the two sides level.
Ghana continued to push forward in search of a second goal and introduced fresh attacking players, but Malawi remained organised defensively. The Scorchers also posed a constant threat on the counterattack, with the Chawinga sisters causing problems for Ghana’s defence.
Their persistence eventually paid off in the 79th minute when Rose Kadzere found space inside the penalty area before calmly finishing past the Ghana goalkeeper to put Malawi 2-1 ahead.
Ghana pushed desperately for an equaliser during the closing stages, but Malawi defended resolutely to preserve their lead.
The historic victory sends Malawi into the WAFCON semi-finals and guarantees the Scorchers one of Africa’s automatic qualification places for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
