
Copper Queens vs. Scorchers Friendlies Hit Financial Roadblock
Malawi’s highly anticipated women’s football friendlies against Zambia’s Copper Queens have hit a financial snag after the country’s National Sports Council announced it would not fund the trip. With time running out, the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) is now scrambling to secure alternative sponsorship to ensure the Scorchers make it to Zambia for the crucial warm-up matches.
The National Sports Council’s chief executive officer, Henry Kamata, confirmed that FAM’s funding request was declined due to budget constraints. With Malawi’s financial year coming to an end, Kamata emphasized that there were no additional funds available to cover the Scorchers’ travel expenses.
“We are heading towards the end of the financial year, and we cannot go to the treasury to ask for extra funds. FAM is aware of our response over the matter,” Kamata stated.
However, FAM president Fleetwood Haiya seemed unaware of the council’s decision, insisting that he had not yet seen the response. Despite the setback, he remains confident that the trip will proceed as planned.
“Yes, I can confirm that we wrote them [the council] regarding the funding for our friendlies in Zambia. I am not aware if they have responded because I haven’t seen their response yet, but I know they will fund the trip,” Haiya said.
Despite Haiya’s optimism, sources within FAM have confirmed to BolaNews that the council had already communicated its decision last week. In response, FAM has now turned to private sponsors in a last-minute effort to secure funding for the trip.
“We are aware of their stance, and there is a plan to find other means to source money. The immediate plan is to talk to sponsors who will help with air tickets. So, yeah, we will fly to Zambia, but this is a big setback that the government has failed to fund the team,” a source revealed.
Zambia invited Malawi for two friendly matches scheduled for February 20 and 23, 2025 as part of both teams’ preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers. Haiya assured that despite the funding challenges, Malawi will send a strong squad to Zambia, including star players Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga.
While the financial struggles pose a challenge, the determination from FAM to secure sponsorship highlights their commitment to ensuring the Scorchers get the necessary international exposure. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the trip materializes as planned.


MTN Super League Results
Drama, Goals & Heartbreak — MTN Super League Week 6 Had It All

African Football
Beaumelle Appointed Angola Head Coach Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

Zambian Football News
Mukoma and Mapepa Win Chinese Super League Title with Beijing WFC

Zambian Football News
Former Chipolopolo Striker Tapson Kaseba Passes Away

FAZ Women's League
Faz Eden Women’s Super League 25/26 Week 4 Fixtures

Zambian Football News
Nthala Names 34-Member U20 Women’s Provisional Squad for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Women's Super League
Natasha Witika Signs for Konkola Blades Queens FC

Zambian Football News
Avram Grant Trims Squad to 26 Ahead of Crucial Morocco Qualifier

Zambian Football News
“We Played as Trained, But South Africa Outclassed Us – Chris Kaunda”

Bola Yapa Zed TV
Watch: Zambia 3-2 Sierra Leone: Extended Highlights

Bola Yapa Zed
Match Highlights: Atletico Lusaka vs Napsa Stars

Zambian Football News
Watch Barbra Banda’s Brace for Orlando Pride Against Seattle Reign

General Football News
Match Highlights Uruguay Vs. Brasil
Must Read
-
MTN Super League Results
/ 1 day agoDrama, Goals & Heartbreak — MTN Super League Week 6 Had It All
The MTN Super League continues to deliver drama, tension and unforgettable football, and Week...
By Chikondi -
National League
/ 1 day agoFAZ President Should be informed about Refereeing Standards – Chembo
Ndola United Head Coach Tenant Chembo has publicly called for immediate intervention from FAZ...
By Enock Phiri -
African Football
/ 2 days agoFIFA Awards Lesotho 3–0 Win After South Africa Field Ineligible Player
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has handed down a major ruling that could reshape Group...
By Chikondi -
African Football
/ 2 days agoBeaumelle Appointed Angola Head Coach Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers
Former Zambia national team assistant coach Patrice Beaumelle has been unveiled as the new...
By Enock Phiri