By Twink Jones Gadama
Malawian footballers continue to make waves in international leagues, showcasing their talent and skills on the global stage. This past weekend saw several players make significant contributions to their teams, with some scoring crucial goals and others helping their sides secure vital wins.
In France, Tabitha Chawinga opened her scoring account for Olympic Lyonnais in style, netting in a 6-0 thrashing of Bordeaux in the Arkema Premier League on Friday.
Chawinga’s goal was a testament to her growing confidence in the French top-flight.
Meanwhile, in Romania, Charles Petro was an unused substitute as FC Botosani drew 2-2 with Dinamo Bucuresti.
Petro will be looking to get more playing time in upcoming matches.
Across the Atlantic, Temwa Chawinga continued her impressive form in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States. She scored her 17th goal of the season as Kansas City Current drew 1-1 with Gotham on Friday.
In Mozambique, Lloyd Njaliwa was the hero for Costa do Sol, scoring a winning goal in a 2-1 comeback victory over Brera FC on Saturday.
Yamikani Chester and Chikoti Chirwa also played key roles in the win, starting and playing the full match, respectively. Richard Mbulu, however, was surprisingly left out of the squad.
Gabadinho Mhango missed Marumo Gallants’ 1-0 win over Amazulu in the Betway Premiership on Saturday due to suspension.
Mhango will be eager to return to action and help his team maintain their momentum.
Limbikani Mzava put in a solid shift for Magesi FC, playing the entire match in a goalless draw against John Maduka’s Royal AM on Saturday.
Rafick Namwera was instrumental in Black Leopards’ 2-0 win over Pretoria Callies in the Motsepe Foundation Championship on Saturday, playing the full 90 minutes.
In England, Jubril Okedina played the entire match for Cambridge United, but couldn’t prevent a 2-0 loss to Lincoln City.
Chifundo Mphasi’s Power Dynamos suffered a 1-2 defeat to Green Buffaloes in Zambia on Saturday, with Mphasi being substituted at halftime.
Christopher Kumwembe, however, celebrated a 2-1 win with Green Buffaloes, starting and playing a crucial role in the victory.
Khuda Muyaba was in action for MA’AM FC in Jordan, playing in a goalless draw against Al Jazeera Ammam on Saturday.
John Banda scored a goal and helped UD Songo secure a 3-0 win over AD Vilankulo in the Moçambola League on Sunday. Miracle Gabeya kept a clean sheet in the victory.
Chawanangwa Kaonga found the back of the net for ZANACO FC in a 2-2 draw against FC Muza on Sunday. Robert Saizi played 60 minutes before being replaced.
Emmanuel Savieli was left out of Mufulira Wanderers’ squad, which lost 2-0 to Zesco United in the MTN Super League on Sunday.
Takondwa Maosa featured for Cambridge United in a 1-2 loss to Witham Town in England on Sunday.
Gabriel Banda warmed the bench for Kabwe Warriors, who drew 2-2 with Forest Rangers on Sunday.
Kieran Ngwenya didn’t make the cut for Dunfermline Athletics, which lost 1-2 to Queens Park in Scotland on Sunday.
These performances demonstrate the growing influence of Malawian players in international football. As the season progresses, fans will eagerly follow their favorite stars, hoping they continue to shine bright on the global stage.