The Zambia Women’s national team opened their CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a determined 2-1 victory over Malawi Women on 6 August 2026, holding off a spirited Scorchers side to take maximum points. The Copper Queens showed the resilience that has made them one of Africa’s rising forces, recovering from a Malawi equaliser and producing a composed second-half display to seal an important win in the group stage.

Match overview

Played in a charged atmosphere, the match offered an intense regional derby between two sides eager to make an early statement. Zambia controlled much of the possession in the opening half-hour and found the breakthrough through a well-worked attacking move, taking a deserved lead into the middle of the first period. Malawi, playing with energy and organization, grew into the contest and punished a momentary lapse in the Zambian defence to level the score before halftime.

The response from the Copper Queens was immediate and purposeful. After the restart, Zambia reasserted dominance in midfield, pressing higher and forcing Malawi into deep defending. The winning goal came after sustained pressure, with the Zambian forwards combining sharply to restore the lead. Despite a late push from Malawi, Zambia’s backline held firm to secure all three points.

Key moments and tactics

• Zambia’s opener: A fast transition down the right flank created the first goal, finished confidently from close range.
• Malawi’s equaliser: A well-delivered set-piece was headed home as the Scorchers made Zambia pay for a lapse in concentration.
• Winning strike: Zambia’s forwards showed their quality in the box, converting from a cutback after patient buildup play.
• Late resilience: Malawi pushed forward in the final ten minutes, but Zambia’s organized defence and goalkeeping secured the win.

Standout performers

Zambia’s midfield dictated the tempo throughout, but it was the movement of their attacking unit that caused the most problems for Malawi. The goalscorers were supported by a solid defensive display, particularly in the closing stages. For Malawi, the performance offered plenty of positives, with their equaliser showing the threat they can carry from set pieces, while their goalkeeper made several smart saves to keep the margin close.

What this result means

Victory gives Zambia a perfect start in the CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations and builds momentum heading into the next fixture. For Malawi, the narrow defeat is a reminder of the fine margins at this level, but their overall display suggests they remain competitive and capable of bouncing back. With both teams still firmly in contention for a place in the knockout rounds, the group remains wide open.