Southern Africa shines at WAFCON

by TINTSWALO BALOYI
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – SOUTHERN Africa has announced itself as a genuine force at the ongoing CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco after the region’s three representatives produced spirited opening performances that underlined the growing strength of women’s football in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Zambia’s Copper Queens delivered the tournament’s most emphatic victory so far, crushing Egypt 6-0 at Al Medina Stadium in Rabat.

The goals came from Racheal Kundananji (two), Barbra Banda (two), Grace Chanda and Fridah Mukoma, sending a clear message that Zambia are among the favourites for continental honours.

Malawi’s Scorchers also produced one of the biggest surprises of the opening round by defeating Nigeria 3-2.

Sabina Thom, Temwa Chawinga and Rose Kabzere found the net in a famous victory that boosted Malawi’s chances of reaching the knockout stages while demonstrating the rapid rise of the nation’s women’s game.

Defending champions South Africa suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Tanzania, but Banyana Banyana showed enough quality to suggest they remain strong contenders for the quarter-finals.

Hildah Magaia scored South Africa’s goal against the Twiga Stars, and a positive result against Côte d’Ivoire at Stade Moulay Rachid in Casablanca on Friday (today) could revive their campaign.

Victory for Zambia over Nigeria on Saturday would secure qualification, while Malawi can also book a place in the last eight by overcoming Egypt at Stade Prince Moulay Al Hassan in Rabat.

South Africa, meanwhile, can keep their hopes alive with victory over Côte d’Ivoire and favourable results elsewhere.

Beyond Southern Africa, hosts Morocco, perennial contenders Nigeria despite their setback, and an improving Tanzania have all shown they possess the quality to challenge for the title or progress deep into the competition.

Côte d’Ivoire also remain capable of influencing Group C.

The performances of Zambia, Malawi and South Africa highlight the remarkable progress of women’s football across Southern Africa.

Strong displays at WAFCON not only enhance the region’s reputation but also strengthen the case for greater investment in women’s football, creating opportunities for future generations and reinforcing SADC’s growing influence on the African football landscape.

– CAJ News