Malawi coach insists the Scorchers play every WAFCON game like a final

The WAFCON debutants made history by reaching the semifinals of the continental showpiece, subsequently automatically qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil for the very first time.

Speaking in their pre-match conference, Fazili says he is confident about his team’s chances ahead of the game against the North African side.

"We have prepared for Algeria like any other country at this WAFCON. All of the teams we have played against are big teams in Africa, so there is no special treatment or training required, but we have been tough on players and we told them why its is so important to be ready for this game because we want to reach another milestone."

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The Southern African side finished top of group C before defeating WAFCON 2024 bronze medalists, Ghana 2-1 in the quarterfinals.

The coach says they can’t wait to reach yet another milestone by making it to the final.

"I told the players to get rid of the mindset that we have achieved everything and we are home and dry. No, we are not like that. The players are aware how significant it is and I'm sure victory will be ours."

The Scorchers will be without their key striker Sabinah Thom who was stretchered off during their group stage clash against Zambia with a knee injury.

Fazili said however that he is grateful that he was able to travel with 26 players in case of injury in camp.