Chombo finds positives in World Cup qualification exit

Malawi’s Junior Scorchers head coach, Maggie Chombo, says her team has gained invaluable experience despite their failed bid to secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals in Poland.

The Junior Scorchers defeated Nigeria 2-1 on Saturday, 9 May 2026, in Lilongwe, but ultimately fell short of qualification with a 3-2 aggregate scoreline.

The Falconets had essentially secured their advantage in the first leg played the previous Saturday, where they claimed a 2-0 victory. This left Malawi with a mountain to climb in the return fixture.

In a post-match interview, Chombo noted that while the team missed out on a maiden World Cup appearance, the qualification campaign yielded significant positives for the development of the squad.

In defeating the Falconets 2-1 on Saturday, 9 May 2026,Malawi under-20 women’s national team became the first ever side from the Warm Heart of Africa to beat Nigerian opposition at any football level. pic.twitter.com/Ioak5FUw4L

— Peter Kanjere (@KanjerePeter) May 9, 2026

Chombo Hails Junior Scorchers’ Growth After Nigeria Win

“We won the match, but our primary aim was to qualify, and unfortunately, we didn’t make it,” she said. “I want to thank the girls for their spirited performance. We have learned a lot throughout this process, and it was a successful campaign in terms of growth.”

Sweden-based forward Faith Chinzimu gave the home side hope, opening the scoring for Malawi in the ninth minute before doubling her tally in the 55th minute to level the aggregate score.

However, the visitors found the decisive response they needed. Precious Oscar scored in the 62nd minute to restore Nigeria’s aggregate lead and ultimately secure their flight to Poland.