Women's AFCON 2026: Malawi advances to quarter-finals despite 1-2 defeat to Zambia

05.08.26 FT Africa Women Cup of Nations

Malawi W

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Zambia W

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Drama unfolded in Group C of the 2026 Women's AFCON in Morocco. Despite a 2-1 loss to Zambia, Malawi still secures a spot in the quarter-finals in their very first participation. A remarkable achievement. Zambia wins, but exits the tournament with plenty of regrets.

Zambia wins, but it's not enough

The Copper Queens struck early. Barbra Banda opened the scoring in just the 2nd minute, then Prisca Chilufya doubled the lead in the 29th. After the break, the Flames responded. Tabitha Chawinga pulled one back in the 71st minute, reigniting the suspense. But Zambia held on and claimed a 2-1 victory.

But it wasn't quite enough. After a 6-0 demolition of Egypt and a 0-1 loss to Nigeria, Zambia finishes level on 6 points with Malawi and Nigeria. They are eliminated due to the head-to-head tiebreaker against the reigning champions.

Malawi pulls off a historic feat

Despite this defeat, Malawi has made history. With a 3-2 win in their opener against defending champions Nigeria, and a 3-1 victory over Egypt, the Flames top the group with 6 points. Nigeria also finishes on 6 points, taking second place thanks to the same head-to-head tiebreaker.

For their debut at the Women's AFCON, Malawi now advances to the quarter-finals. Fazili's squad will take on the runner-up from Group D, either Mali or Ghana. It's a new chapter for Malawian women's football.

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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Malawi W

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