Zambia’s Copper Queens clinched the Tri-Nations Women’s Football Tournament title with a confident 3–1 win over Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, completing a dominant campaign in Malawi.
Enelesi Phiri was once again the star of the show, netting a well-taken brace, while Natasha Nanyangwe added a third to secure Zambia’s crown. Zimbabwe responded through Nobukhosi Ncube but were unable to match the Copper Queens’ intensity and fluidity.
Context: Zimbabwe’s Strong Start, Malawi’s Early Exit
Zimbabwe had opened the tournament with an impressive 2–1 victory over hosts Malawi last Friday, thanks to a first-half brace from Ethel Chinyerere. The Mighty Warriors produced a disciplined display, with goalkeeper Cynthia Shonga making key saves to secure the win. Malawi’s Scorchers, despite late pressure and second-half changes led by captain Tabitha Chawinga, could not overturn the deficit and eventually finished bottom after also losing to Zambia.
Reflecting on Zimbabwe’s opener, coach Sithethelewe Sibanda praised her players’ “tactical defensive shape” despite nine months without competitive football, while Malawi’s Lovemore Fazili noted the value of testing new players in the defeat.
Zambia’s Commanding Run to the Title
Having already dispatched Malawi, the Copper Queens entered the final fixture needing only to avoid defeat—but they went a step further by asserting total control against Zimbabwe. Phiri’s clinical finishing, combined with Zambia’s superior organisation and movement, underlined their status as the region’s in-form side.
Ncube’s consolation for Zimbabwe briefly lifted hopes, but Zambia’s composure ensured there would be no dramatic comeback.
Tournament Significance
Organised by the Football Association of Malawi (FAM), the Tri-Nations Tournament served as vital preparation for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Zambia’s triumph, coming on the back of their emphatic 7–2 aggregate win over Namibia in WAFCON qualifiers, further highlights their growing stature in African women’s football.
For Zimbabwe, the tournament marked a promising return to international action, while Malawi will seek improvement after a disappointing campaign on home soil.