The Malawi women’s national football team advanced to the semifinals of the CAN féminine 2026 after defeating Ghana 2–1 in a quarterfinal match, according to tournament reports. With the victory, the team known as the Scorchers secured a qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
How Malawi Defeated Ghana in the Quarterfinals
Playing in their first participation in the CAN féminine tournament, Malawi faced a seasoned Ghana side at the quarterfinal stage, as reported by Afrik.com. The Ghanaian team, known as the Black Queens, opened the scoring quickly when Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah found the net in just the seventh minute of the match. Malawi responded five minutes later when captain Temwa Chawinga equalized to level the score at 1–1.
Early in the second half, Ghana thought they had regained the lead when Doris Boaduwaa scored, but the goal was overturned following a VAR review. As the match wore on, Malawi’s defense held firm against sustained pressure from the Black Queens. In the 79th minute, Rose Kadzere broke the deadlock by scoring inside the penalty area to put Malawi ahead 2–1, a lead the team maintained through the final whistle.
A Historic Journey to the World Cup and Semifinals
The victory marks another milestone in an extraordinary tournament run for Malawi. Earlier in the competition, the Scorchers finished at the top of their group, securing notable wins against reigning champions Nigeria and Egypt. By reaching the final four of the CAN féminine 2026 alongside their victory over Ghana, the team officially booked its place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The milestone makes Malawi a success story on the continental stage, transforming the squad into the tournament’s revelation.
Upcoming Semifinal Match Against Algeria
Malawi will face Algeria in the CAN féminine 2026 semifinals on August 12, according to match schedules. Algeria advanced to the final four by defeating Côte d’Ivoire 2–1, also securing their qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Meanwhile, Ghana’s tournament journey continues through an African playoff against Côte d’Ivoire, where the winner will retain a chance to reach the 2027 World Cup via intercontinental playoffs.
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