Malawi Women’s National Team head coach Lovemore Fazili says the Scorchers are fully prepared for Wednesday’s third-place playoff against India at the FIFA Series in Kenya.
The Scorchers are aiming to finish the tournament on a high after suffering a heavy defeat to Australia in the semifinal, while India also fell at the same stage to hosts Kenya, setting up a bronze medal clash between the two sides.
Fazili said the technical panel has analysed both their own shortcomings and India’s strengths ahead of the match.
“We are preparing well for the game against India. Whatever went wrong in our opening game against Australia has been rectified, and the players understand how important this game is. We are expected to get the win, and everyone is ready,” he said.
The coach described India as a disciplined and organised side.
“Tactically and technically, India are a team that plays as a unit. They were playing a 4-4-2 formation, pressing collectively. We have been preparing with that information in mind, and whatever approach we bring will be a positive one,” he said.
Fazili also indicated that changes will be made to both the formation and starting lineup.
“We will not only change the formation — we will also make changes to the lineup. The players were not poor in the first game, though some struggled. Now everyone is settled and we expect each player to give her best,” he added.
The coach hinted at a possible change in goal, with Esther Maulidi in contention after an impressive showing off the bench.
“We have to look at changing the goalkeeper. Esther came in after we took off Mercy and I think she did well. She gave us what we had been looking for and deserves another chance,” said Fazili.
The FIFA Series is part of Malawi’s preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which also serves as a pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Fazili remains optimistic about the team’s progress, especially with the expected return of key players.
“The picture the team is giving us is very positive. We only need to rectify a few areas. When we have Temwa and Tabitha back, we will definitely have a very strong team,” he said.
Looking ahead, Fazili believes the team can compete strongly at the continental stage.
“We have come very far in our preparations. The players have gained valuable experience after playing many international matches. With a full squad available, I don’t see any problems for the Scorchers,” he added.
