FIFA Series: Malawi disappointed to finish fourth – Fazili

Malawi women’s national team coach Lovemore Fazili has described finishing fourth at the FIFA Series 2026 in Kenya on Wednesday, 15th April 2026, as disappointing.

The Scorchers’ defensive frailties and profligacy proved costly once again as they lost 2-3 to India in the third-place play-off at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi to finish bottom of the FIFA Series 2026.

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— FA Malawi (@FaMalawi) April 15, 2026

Initially, the Malawians lost 0-5 to eventual champions Australia on Saturday, a result that was hardly surprising considering the absence of star players Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga.

Scorchers finish FIFA Series empty-handed

However, a lot was expected from the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON)-bound side against India.

In a post-match interview with the Football Association of Malawi media, Fazili said it was unacceptable for his side to suffer back-to-back defeats at the competition.

“I think the game was not as tough compared to the match against Australia,” said the coach.

Did Malawi underrate India?

The former Malawi men’s national team assistant coach suggested that some Scorchers’ players had underrated India on Wednesday.

“Maybe some players took India for granted after seeing them lose to Kenya. The goals we conceded are not ones we are supposed to allow. That is what happens when you take things for granted. Finishing fourth is disappointing,” he said.

Nonetheless, Fazili described the trip to Kenya as a timely learning curve ahead of his team’s debut at the 2026 WAFCON finals in Morocco from July.

“These are good preparations for WAFCON. We have learnt important lessons, and we will be very careful in selecting players. We will pick those who are ready to deliver, regardless of where they play,” he said.

The Scorchers went into the third-place playoff amid mounting doubts on their preparedness for the forthcoming WAFCON finals.