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While a formidable four-year chasm in international experience separates them from the seasoned Morocco Atlas Lionesses, Malawi’s recent trajectory at the regional level signals an unyielding ambition to etch their name onto the continental stage.

Their recent clash with Morocco, though a 4-2 defeat, was a crucible of invaluable lessons and a testament to their burning desire to rise, not just a friendly game.

The Atlas Lionesses, having played their inaugural international fixture in 1998, a full four years prior to the Scorchers’ humbling 8-0 debut against Zambia, have since enjoyed a meteoric ascent. Their journey culminated in a historic runner-up finish at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where they sensationally dethroned three-time defending champions Nigeria in a penalty shootout.

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This was followed by a dazzling foray into the 2023 World Cup, reaching the Round of 16 – a testament to their unwavering progress on the global stage.

Conversely, Malawi, with a comparatively nascent history in women’s football, has rapidly become a dominant force within the COSAFA region. Their COSAFA Cup performances speak volumes: group stage in 2019, third place in 2020, runners-up in 2021, and then, in a culmination of relentless effort, champions in 2023. This upward-surging graph underscores their burgeoning prowess and serves as a springboard for their continental aspirations.

With the 2026 WAFCON as their ultimate lodestar, as articulated by their talismanic captain, Tabitha Chawinga, the Scorchers are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations.

A rigorous regimen of friendly matches against higher-ranked adversaries – two encounters apiece with 65th-ranked Zambia and 54th-ranked South Africa, culminating in the recent showdown with 60th-ranked Morocco – shows their unwavering commitment to confronting superior opposition head-on.

Despite Malawi’s current ranking of 154th, the sheer audacity of these fixtures speaks volumes about their intent.

Thursday evening’s encounter in Casablanca was a palpable demonstration of Malawi’s burgeoning threat. The Scorchers, against all odds, teetered on the precipice of a monumental upset, seizing a two-goal lead that sent tremors through the Moroccan defense.

Lyon’s prolific forward, Tabitha Chawinga, exhibited her predatory instincts, converting a penalty in the 27th minute. This was swiftly followed by a sublime partnership with Montpellier starlet, Rose Kabzere, who exquisitely nodded home a beautifully presented chance from Chawinga, highlighting the growing synergy of their French-based talents.

However, the Atlas Lionesses, demonstrating their championship pedigree, mounted a resurgent comeback. An unfortunate own goal from Bernadettar Mkandawire in the 40th minute offered them a lifeline, and just three minutes later, Sakina Ouzraou leveled the score, effectively neutralizing Malawi’s advantage.

The second half saw Morocco capitalize on their opportunities, ultimately securing a 4-2 victory, leaving the Scorchers to ponder what might have been.

Post-match, Coach Fazili’s assessment resonated with a pragmatic optimism. “It was a fair game, and the players played well, especially in the first half where we managed to score two goals, though we also conceded two,” he remarked.

Acknowledging the missed opportunities in the second half, he emphasized the invaluable insights gained: “However, this was a good training for us, and there are a number of positives that we will take back home with. The chances that we had can turn into goals when properly utilised, and there are some improvements in the performances of some players, which is encouraging.” Fazili’s sharp eye also pinpointed areas for refinement, particularly the midfield’s struggles with marking, affirming a commitment to address these deficiencies in forthcoming training sessions.

The clash with Morocco, therefore, was not a defeat but a crucial stepping stone for Malawi. It was a baptism by fire, illuminating both their inherent talent and areas ripe for growth.