Parliament on Monday turned into a scene of national celebration as MPs paid glowing tribute to the Malawi Women’s National Football Team — the Scorchers — following their sensational run at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Presiding over the sitting, Speaker Sameer Suleman said the team’s performance had “lifted the spirit of the nation”, describing their achievements as a source of immense pride for every Malawian.
He told MPs that the Scorchers had not only exceeded expectations in their maiden appearance at the continental showpiece — they had rewritten Malawi’s football story.
Suleman urged both male and female MPs to join thousands of Malawians expected to welcome the team home, saying the players deserved a hero’s reception for their courage, discipline and extraordinary commitment.
“These young women have carried the flag with honour,” he said. “They deserve to be celebrated by the entire country.”
The Speaker also made a passionate call for increased financial support for women’s football, warning that Malawi risks losing momentum if the Scorchers are not backed with proper investment.
He said the team had shown what Malawi is capable of when talent is nurtured — and insisted that with adequate funding, the Scorchers could dominate African football for years to come.
In a bold declaration that electrified the chamber, Suleman said he believed the 2026 WAFCON trophy is coming home, adding that the team’s fighting spirit had already proven they can stand toe‑to‑toe with Africa’s giants.
The Scorchers have enjoyed a dream debut, stunning record champions Nigeria 3–2 before overpowering Egypt 3–1 to top their group and storm into the knockout stage.
Their fearless performances have sparked nationwide excitement, with fans hailing the team as the new face of Malawi’s sporting ambition.
Parliament’s tribute comes as the country prepares for what many expect to be one of the biggest homecomings in recent sporting history.
