National Teams
Malawi captain Tabitha Chawinga relishes Nigeria test at WAFCON debut
Malawi captain Tabitha Chawinga says her country’s qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is the result of years of hard work rather than luck as the Scorchers prepare for their historic tournament debut against defending champions Nigeria.
The FIFA Women’s Player of the Year nominee will lead Malawi into their maiden WAFCON appearance on Tuesday when they face the Super Falcons in Group C, marking one of the biggest moments in the country’s football history.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, the prolific forward described reaching Africa’s biggest women’s football competition as the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.
“This was my dream,” Chawinga said.
“I was dreaming about playing in Africa one time. This is the time now. I feel good. I feel happy.”
The Malawi skipper rejected suggestions that her nation’s qualification was a surprise, insisting the Scorchers had earned their place through consistent performances.
“It’s not by chance that we are here. That is how we performed. We believe God is there for us. That’s why He sent us here.”
Despite coming up against the tournament’s most successful nation, Chawinga revealed she was excited when the draw paired Malawi with Nigeria, saying the challenge motivated rather than intimidated the squad.
“When I saw the draw against Nigeria, of course I was happy because we need to face this challenge no matter what.”
The striker, who has built friendships with several Nigerian internationals during her professional career, believes that familiarity could work in Malawi’s favour.
“They know many players from Nigeria. They need to compete with them.”
“I believe by the end of the day against Nigeria tomorrow we can be happy as well.”
Beyond the opening fixture, Chawinga also used the occasion to encourage young girls across Malawi to pursue their football dreams, urging them to remain disciplined and committed to their development.
She stressed that football has the power to unite people and inspire future generations, expressing hope that Malawi’s appearance at WAFCON would encourage greater investment in women’s football back home.
As one of Africa’s most accomplished forwards, Chawinga will carry the hopes of an entire nation when Malawi step onto the continental stage for the first time, determined to prove that the tournament newcomers can compete with the very best.
