By Chiyembekezo Kachitsa
Malawi’s historic run at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations has come to an end after the Scorchers suffered a 3-0 defeat to Cameroon in Sunday’s final.
The result saw Cameroon lift the WAFCON trophy, while Malawi finished runners-up in their first-ever appearance at the continental tournament.
Across Malawi, fans stayed awake to watch the final, hoping the Scorchers would complete their remarkable campaign by bringing the trophy home.
Although the result was disappointing, supporters have praised the team for reaching the final and making history throughout the tournament.
A Historic Campaign
The Scorchers have achieved several milestones in Morocco.
Malawi became the first national football team from the country to qualify for a FIFA World Cup, securing a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil
The achievement is particularly significant as Malawi’s men’s national team has never qualified for the World Cup.
The Scorchers also became the first WAFCON debutants to reach the final after defeating Algeria 3-1 in the semi-final.
Temwa Chawinga Wins Golden Boot
Despite the final defeat, Malawi had individual success as Temwa Chawinga was awarded the Golden Boot after finishing as the tournament’s leading scorer.
Chawinga was one of the standout performers throughout Malawi’s historic campaign, while her sister Tabitha Chawinga also played a crucial role in taking the Scorchers to the final.
The Trophy Was Not Coming Home, But History Was Made
Many Malawians had hoped the Scorchers would return home with the WAFCON trophy.
That dream ended in the final, but the team’s achievement remains one of the biggest moments in Malawi’s football history.
From tournament debutants to African runners-up and World Cup qualifiers, the Scorchers have given the country a campaign to remember.
Celebrations are still expected when the team returns home, with fans set to welcome the players and recognise their historic achievement.
The trophy may not be coming to Malawi this time.But the Scorchers are returning with something the country has never had before:
A place at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Brazil 2027 awaits.
