The Malawi National Women’s Football Team, the Scorchers, have left for Tanzania where they will play two international friendly matches against the hosts as part of preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The Scorchers were initially scheduled to face th Tanzania and Ghana, but will now play Tanzania twice following Ghana’s withdrawal from the games.
The two matches, scheduled for 3 and 6 June in Dar es Salaam, will provide the Scorchers with valuable match practice as they continue preparations for their historic appearance at Africa’s top women’s football tournament.
The 23-member squad left Chileka International Airport on Sunday.
The Football Association of Malawi has organised the friendlies as part of ongoing efforts to ensure the Scorchers gain adequate international exposure and competitive action before the continental finals.
Travelling Squad
Goalkeepers
Mercy Sikelo (Kukoma Ntopwa), Yamikani Kaonga (MDF Lioness), Esther Maulidi (Mighty Wanderers Queens)
Defenders
Rose Alufandika (Kukoma Ntopwa), Talandira Chinyamvula (Ascent Soccer Academy), Maggie Chavula (Ascent Soccer Academy), Benadetta Mkandawire (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women), Ireen Khumalo (Silver Strikers Ladies), Olivia Phikani (Kukoma Ntopwa), Chimwemwe Madise (TP Mazembe)
Midfielders
Letticia Chinyamula (Ascent Soccer Academy), Rose Kabzere (Montpellier), Faith Chimzimu (Häcken FC), Chikondi Gondwe (Silver Strikers Ladies), Madina Nguluwe (Silver Strikers Ladies), Lyna James (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women), Vanessa Chipikula (Palm Hills Sports Club), Vitumbiko Mkandawire (Civil Service Women)
Attackers
Sabina Thom (Phoenix Feminin), Deborah Henry (Silver Strikers Ladies), Mary Chavinda (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women), Fatima Lali (Ascent Soccer Academy), Tabitha Chawinga (Olympique Lyonnais
