Bragging Rights at Stake as Malawi’s Scorchers Face Zambia’s Copper Queens in Double-Header Clash

Bragging rights will be at stake this afternoon as the Malawi women’s national team, the Scorchers, square off against their Zambian counterparts, the Copper Queens, in a highly anticipated double-header clash. While Zambia will rely on the firepower of stars like Barbra Banda and Rachel Kundananji, Malawi’s Scorchers will pin their hopes on the phenomenal Chawinga sisters, who have cemented their names among the greats on the global stage. 

Unlike their opponents, the Scorchers enter these fixtures after a lengthy period of inactivity, making it difficult to predict their performance. However, with an exciting blend of experienced players and youthful prospects called up for the matches, Coach Lovemore Fazili will be expecting his squad to hold their ground and deliver results that will bring smiles to Scorchers’ fans. 

For many Zambians, neutrals, and even less-informed Malawians, identifying key players in the Scorchers’ squad beyond the Chawinga sisters might be a challenge. This article provides a lowdown on some of the lesser-known but equally adept players to watch in these fixtures—players who have the potential to disrupt Nora Hauptle’s tactics aimed at neutralizing the Chawinga sisters. Without further ado, let’s dive into the names: 

 

1. Faith Chinzimu:

The 18-year-old Ascent Soccer player comes into these matches in fine form, boasting significant experience that belies her age. Insanely versatile, Faith can play across multiple positions, showcasing the discipline and ability to shoulder big responsibilities. Her exceptional performances in the recently concluded Goshen Regional Tournament and last year’s CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers, where she led a youthful Ascent Soccer squad, have earned her a spot in the starting XI. It will be interesting to see where Coach Fazili deploys her, but one thing is certain: she has earned her place. 

2. Zainab Kapanda:

I previously highlighted Zainab Kapanda after her standout performance at the 2020 COSAFA Women’s Championship, where her trickery and dedication in both attacking and defensive situations caught my eye. At the time, she was a hot prospect. Unfortunately, her career stalled due to academic commitments and a persistent knee injury. Now back to full fitness, the 23-year-old Nyasa Bullets Women’s captain will look to regain her flair and torment Zambia’s fullbacks on either wing.

3. Rose Kadzere:

Formerly of Ascent Soccer, Rose recently moved to Montpellier Women in the French League, where she is still establishing herself. With a goal and an assist in nine games so far, much is expected from the 18-year-old in the coming seasons. These matches against Zambia present an opportunity for her to remind the football world why top clubs across Africa, including Mamelodi Sundowns Women, had their eyes on her before her move to France. Whether deployed on the wings or in the number 10 role, Rose is poised to cause havoc.

4. Tendai Sani:

The 20-year-old Nyasa Bullets striker was a revelation in the recently concluded 2024 Goshen FAM Women’s Football Southern League, where she scored a record 65 goals! Much will be expected from her in these fixtures and beyond, especially given her limited presence in the Scorchers’ setup compared to the aforementioned players. While Zambia focuses on containing Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga, Tendai’s endless runs and goal-scoring prowess—both inside and outside the box—will keep the Copper Queens’ defense on their toes.

5. Chimwemwe Madise:

Another player I highlighted in my 2020 article, TP Mazembe’s Chimwemwe Madise, earns a mention this time as the likely leader of the Scorchers’ defense in the absence of the ever-reliable Patricia Nyirenda. Having not played for the Scorchers since the 2023 COSAFA tournament, there are concerns about her ability to contain Barbra Banda and Rachel Kundananji. However, the 32-year-old can draw on her experience playing in the Zambian Women’s League (Elite Ladies) to rise to the occasion. With support from her fellow defenders, Chimwemwe is poised to excel in these thrilling fixtures. 

Other Notable Names: 

Keep an eye on Leticia Chinyamula, voted COSAFA’s Most Promising Player in 2024; Ndirande Soccer Giants’ left-footed Sarah Mulimbika; Vanessa Chikupila, who previously played for Green Buffaloes before moving to Kazakhstan; and Ascent Soccer’s combative center-back, Maggie Chavula. 

My Prediction: 

Having lived in Ndola for the first half of 2024, I would have been worried if these matches were played there, where the Copper Queens enjoy a massive following. However, with the games scheduled for Lusaka, I’m predicting high-scoring thrillers: a 2-4 and 3-3 outcome, respectively.

May the best team win. Ba neba ni ba neba!