Malawi Women’s National Football Team Coach Lovemore Fazili believes the win over Zambia’s Copper Queens is not by fluke.

Fazili was reacting to the Scorchers 3-2 victory over Zambia in an international friendly match at Reiz Arena, Lusaka, in Zambia on Tuesday.

He said the result was a clear testimony that the Scorchers had made strides.

“This is a true reflection of our quality. I am happy that the team managed to beat Zambia, which is a very strong team in Africa,” Fazili said.

The win over Zambia came two days after the Scorchers had lost 2-0 in the first match at the same venue.

Fazili said the Scorchers are now favourites to qualify for the 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) finals.

“We, as a team, have made a lot of progress. It means we are now 95 percent ready for the Wafcon qualifiers. Our opponents in upcoming competitions should brace for a tough time,” Fazili said.

Rose Kabzere, Faith Chinzimu and Sabina Thom were on target for the Scorchers whereas Rachel Kundananji and Rachael Nachula scored for the Copper Queens.

Tabitha Chawinga led the team in both matches whereas her sister missed Tuesday’s victory due to travel schedules.

The Scorchers will face either Zimbabwe or Angola in the second round of the Wafcon qualifiers in October this year.

Zimbabwe and Angola were in action at Lucas Moripe Stadium, South Africa, as we went to press yesterday.

Sports analyst Parry Chinyama said the Scorchers had shown progress in recent years.

“The team has shown a lot of potential. If well supported, they will do well in all competitions,” Chinyama said.

Malawi progressed to the second round of the Wafcon qualifiers after Congo Brazzaville pulled out of the competition due to lack of preparations.