The Scorchers on Sunday morning lost 2-0 to the Copper Queens of Zambia in the first of the two friendly matches played at Reiz Arena Stadium in Lusaka.

The game was originally scheduled for yesterday but was halted in the 22nd minute due to heavy rains, with Zambia leading 1-0 after Avell Chitundu’s 20th-minute goal.

When play resumed today with the same scores, Zambia was awarded a penalty in the 26th minute, but Rachael Nachula’s effort was saved by Scorchers’ goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo.

Malawi pushed for an equalizer but struggled to convert their chances.

In the 77th minute, Zambia capitalized on a free kick outside the 18-yard box, with Rachael Kundanaji scoring directly to seal the win.

Scorchers Head Coach Lovemore Fazili rued his team’s missed chances.

“We played better than Zambia and created many chances, but we failed to convert them. We’ve learned a lot from this match, and we’ll come back stronger in the second game.”

Lineup: Mercy Sikelo, Maureen Kenneth, Rose Alufandika, chimwemwe Madise, Ireen Khumalo, Faith Chimzimu, Letticia Chinyamula, Rose Kabzere (Zainab Kapanda 62′), Tabitha Chawinga, Temwa Chawinga, Sabina Thom (Chisomo Banda 77′)