Malawi Stun Ghana to Reach WAFCON Semi-Finals and Qualify for World Cup

RABAT, Morocco — Debutants Malawi continued their remarkable run at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Ghana in the quarter-finals at the Al Medina Stadium.

The Scorchers came from behind to secure a historic place in the semi-finals and automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil — the first time Malawi have reached the global tournament.

Ghana took an early lead in the seventh minute through Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, who finished calmly after a right-wing delivery. Malawi responded quickly, with captain Temwa Chawinga equalising just five minutes later with a powerful effort from the edge of the area that took a deflection past the Ghana goalkeeper.

The match remained tightly contested until the 79th minute, when Rose Kadzere produced the decisive moment. The forward raced onto a cross from Chawinga, advanced on goal and slotted the ball past the advancing goalkeeper to complete the turnaround.

Ghana pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages but were unable to break down a determined Malawi defence. The victory sends the Scorchers into the semi-finals, where they will face Algeria, while Ghana drop into the play-off route for a remaining World Cup place.

Malawi’s fairytale campaign continues after earlier victories over Nigeria and Zambia in the group stage, marking one of the most impressive debuts in WAFCON history.