Malawi unveil squad for Falconets clash News

Malawi U-20 women’s team head coach Maggie Chombo has named a 29-player squad to begin preparations for their decisive FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers final preliminary round clash against Nigeria, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The Young Scorchers will face the Falconets in a two-legged tie in the fourth round, with the first leg scheduled for May 2 in Nigeria, before the return fixture takes place on May 9 at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.

Chombo has retained the core of her squad, keeping 21 players who featured in Malawi’s third-round qualification victory over Guinea-Bissau earlier this year, as she looks to maintain continuity ahead of the crucial encounter.

The team is expected to open camp on April 13 at Mpira Village in Blantyre, where preparations will intensify in the build-up to the tie.

The winner over the two legs will secure a place at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Poland from August 27 to September 26.

Malawi’s squad features a blend of domestic talents drawn from clubs including Ascent Soccer Academy, Kukoma Ntopwa Women, Silver Strikers Ladies and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women, with representation across all departments.

Goalkeepers Ireen Sibande, Emily Nkhwazi and Fortune Bwitubwitu have been selected, while the defensive unit includes Maureen Keneth, Talandira Chinyamvula, Olivia Phikani, Emily Samuel, Judith Kam’bwemba, Alinafe Milanzie and Efa Msuka.

In midfield, Leticia Chinyamula, Sarah Mulimbika, Anna Baziliyo, Kondawo Banda, Carlo Mlenzo, Linda Manda, Fanny Moyo, Enelesi Fabiano and Victoria Mkwala have been called up, while the attacking options include Mary Chindeya, Fatima Lali, Grace Mkakangula, Mkandawire, Vanessa Issa, Hope Chikunga, Wongani Masamba, Talandila Kachala, Rebecca Banda and Chisomo Mtelela.

Nigeria head into the fixture with a formidable pedigree, having qualified for every edition of the U-20 Women’s World Cup since its inception in 2022.

The Falconets have finished as runners-up twice, losing to Germany in the 2010 and 2014 final, and are now targeting a 12th appearance at the tournament.

After overcoming Rwanda and Senegal in the second and third round respectively, the upcoming fourth round tie presents a stern test for Nigeria against one of Africa’s rising sides at youth level, with both teams aiming to secure a coveted place on the global stage.