Malawi shock Ghana to reach historic WAFCON semi-finals and qualify for World Cup
Malawi produced another major upset at WAFCON 2026, coming from behind to defeat Ghana 2-1 and secure a historic semi-final place and qualification for their first Women’s World Cup.
Malawi continued their remarkable WAFCON 2026 campaign by defeating Ghana 2-1 on Sunday to reach the semi-finals and secure their first-ever qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The result caps an extraordinary debut tournament for the Scorchers.
Ghana made the stronger start and took the lead through Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah in the seventh minute.
Malawi responded quickly, with captain Temwa Chawinga restoring parity five minutes later as the debutants refused to be intimidated by their more experienced opponents.
The Black Queens appeared to have regained the advantage after the interval, but Doris Boaduwaa’s effort was ruled out following a VAR review. Ghana continued attacking, yet Malawi remained organised and dangerous on the counter as the contest entered its decisive stages.
Malawi eventually completed the comeback in the 79th minute when Rose Kadzere found the net to send the Scorchers ahead. Ghana pushed desperately for an equaliser but could not break through, allowing Malawi to secure one of the biggest victories in their history.
Ghana’s defeat ends their route to automatic World Cup qualification, although the Black Queens still have another opportunity through a play-off.
Malawi, meanwhile, advance to the WAFCON semi-finals and will now prepare for their historic first appearance at the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
