Faith Chinzimu Says WAFCON Has Changed Her Game and Inspired Malawi’s Next Generation

Faith Chinzimu has taken more than a runners-up medal from Malawi’s historic run at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The 19-year-old Malawi international says the tournament has changed the way she plays and given her a clearer understanding of what is required against the continent’s best teams.

Speaking after Malawi’s 3-0 defeat to Cameroon in the final, Chinzimu said the experience had taught her to play with greater speed when in possession. She also stressed that the achievement belonged to the team rather than to her individually. Pan Africa Football reported her comments on August 18.

Chinzimu’s assessment comes after a remarkable tournament for the Scorchers. Malawi reached the WAFCON final in their first appearance at the competition, having already secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Pan Africa Football reported that Chinzimu featured in all six of Malawi’s matches during the tournament.

Her rise had already been significant before the finals. Chinzimu scored twice against Angola in the final qualifying round to send Malawi to their first WAFCON. CAF also recorded the decisive 2-0 victory and identified Chinzimu as the player who scored both goals.

The WAFCON campaign has now given her another target. Chinzimu believes Malawi must prepare more thoroughly for the World Cup because the opposition will be stronger.

She also sees the Scorchers’ run as something bigger than the current squad. According to her, Malawi’s success should encourage young players still developing at home to believe that professional football and international success are within reach.

For Chinzimu, the lesson from Morocco is straightforward: the gap between established teams and emerging nations can be challenged, but only with better preparation, hard work and the willingness to learn.