The Bullets Women wing-back registered her second assist of the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as the Scorchers secured a second successive victory in their historic debut campaign.
Bernadetta Mkandawire registered her second assist of the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as Malawi defeated hosts Egypt 3-1 at Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Saturday to continue their dream start to the tournament.
The FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women defender once again played a key role for the Scorchers, helping them secure a second successive victory in their maiden appearance at the continental finals after Tuesday’s memorable 3-2 win over Nigeria.
After weathering Egypt’s bright opening spell, Malawi gradually took control through patient possession and sustained pressure. The breakthrough arrived in the 35th minute when Ireen Khumalo’s cross found Temwa Chawinga, who controlled superbly before laying the ball into the path of Rose Kabzere to put the Scorchers ahead.
Malawi doubled their advantage in first-half stoppage time through Faith Chimzimu. Mkandawire whipped an inviting cross from the right for the midfielder, whose initial header was well saved by Maha Shehata before she reacted quickest to turn home the rebound and give the visitors a deserved 2-0 lead at the interval.
Egypt introduced Dana Nadda and Eman Kassem in place of Yassmin Hassanin and Nour Masoud after the restart in search of a response, but despite Rose Alufandika’s dismissal in the 52nd minute for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity, Malawi continued to pose a threat.
The Scorchers extended their advantage in the 68th minute when Kabzere’s clever flick released Temwa Chawinga, who raced through to head past Maha Shehata. The goal was briefly checked by the Video Assistant Referee for a possible offside before being allowed to stand.
Egypt reduced the deficit two minutes later when substitute Eman Kassem headed home from a free-kick, but Malawi remained composed despite playing with 10 players. Goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo produced a string of important saves, while the defence stood firm to keep the hosts at bay.
There was late VAR drama when Malawi were awarded a penalty in stoppage time after Tabitha Chawinga’s square pass was adjudged to have been handled inside the penalty area. However, following a lengthy review, the referee overturned the decision before bringing the match to a close moments later.
The victory made it two wins from two for Malawi in their historic debut at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while Mkandawire continued her impressive tournament with her second assist of the competition. Fellow Bullets Women midfielder Lyna James remained an unused substitute as the Scorchers made their only two changes of the match in the 89th minute.
