.…Malawi 1-2 Burundi…
BUNJUMBURA-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s Women’s Under-17 national team saw their FIFA World Cup dream slip away after a 2-1 defeat to Burundi in a tense second leg qualifier played at Stade Intwari, confirming a 4-2 aggregate loss.
Heading into the decisive encounter trailing 2-1 from the first leg, the young Scorchers needed a strong start but it was the hosts who struck early.
Ange Nice Nibogora stunned Malawi with an eighth minute opener, putting Burundi firmly in control.
The pressure mounted as Anne Marie Nishimwe doubled the advantage in the 36th minute, leaving Malawi with a steep uphill battle before halftime.
Despite the setback, Malawi showed resilience after the break.
Tamandani Chilimba reignited hope with a well taken goal in the second half but time was not on their side as Burundi held firm to secure progression.
Head coach Chisomo Nkhoma did not hide her disappointment after the match, admitting the result was painful given the number of chances her side created but failed to convert.
She, however, expressed belief in the squad’s potential, insisting the team has a bright future if given continued support and development.
Football analyst Ibrahim Phiri echoed those sentiments, urging the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) to keep the team intact, emphasizing that the current crop of players represents a promising foundation for the country’s future in women’s football.