.….Mtopwa 3-5 Zesco Ndola Girls
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s representatives in the CAF Women’s Champions League/COSAFA Qualifier, Kukoma Ntopwa, have ended their 2025 campaign on a disappointing note, finishing bottom of Group A without a single point.
The Blantyre based side suffered their third consecutive defeat on Tuesday, losing 5-3 to Zambia’s Zesco Ndola Girls at the UJ AW Muller Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Despite showing improved attacking intent and scoring three goals their first of the tournament defensive frailties proved costly once again.
Earlier in the competition, Ntopwa were beaten 3-0 by defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies before suffering another 3-0 defeat to Botswana’s Double Action Ladies (Beauties FC).
The team has conceded a total of 11 goals across the three matches, highlighting areas that need urgent attention if they are to compete at this level in future editions.
This is Ntopwa’s second failed attempt to progress from the group stages, having also bowed out winless in the 2023 qualifiers.
Isaac Jomo Osman head coach for Ntopwa admitted the team has a lot of work to do but praised his players for showing fighting spirit in a tough group against some of Southern Africa’s best women’s clubs.
“We have learned valuable lessons. The gap is there, but with more investment, proper preparations, and exposure, Malawian women’s teams can compete better in the region,” Osman said.
Attention will now turn to the domestic league, where Ntopwa are expected to reinforce their squad and address the weaknesses exposed at the tournament.