Scorchers panel impressed with debutants

The Malawi National Women’s football team coaching panel says it is impressed with the perfomance of debutants, Fazila Chembekezo, Ireen Khumalo and Carolyne Mathyola who earned their first caps in Scorchers’ 2-1 loss to South Africa on Tuesday.

The three are among the six new faces in the Scorchers squad at the on going 2021 Cosafa Women’s Championship in South Africa.

The others are goalkeeper Ruth Mhango, defender Mphatso Gondwe and midfielder Lyna James.

Chembekezo and Khumalo made their way into the first 11 while Mathyola replaced Chembekezo 11 minutes from full time.

Fazila Chembekezo of Malawi is challenged by Janine van Wyk of South Africa during the 2021 COSAFA Womens Championship Group A game between South Africa and Malawi at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on 28 September 2021 ©Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

Scorchers Co – Caretaker coach McNelbert Kazuwa said they were pleased with how the three handled their first appearances.

“We are very much impressed with the performance of the three girls, who were given their first chance to play for the Scorchers.

“They gave it all and fought for the team. The left back Khumalo did well to neutlise attacks on the left .

“Mathyola proved to be a game changer when she went in as a substitute by engineering our lone goal.

Oratile Mokwena of South Africa is tackled by Ireen Khumalo of Malawi during the 2021 COSAFA Womens Championship Group A game between South Africa and Malawi at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on 28 September 2021 ©Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

“The three are the future of the team. They are young after being promoted from the Under 20 and will achieve alot in this team,” said Kazuwa.

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