Local clubs welcome Caf women’s tourney proposal
Malawi women’s football clubs have welcomed the possible introduction of Confederation of African Football (Caf) club competitions in the near future.
The continental football governing body announced plans to discuss the introduction of elite club competitions when the executive committee meet on June 30. In an interview, Malawi’s women’s football heavy weights DD Sunshine, Blantyre Zero and Skippers were excited about the idea.
Sunshine coach Andrew Chikhosi who is also Scorchers assistant said local teams have potential to do well on the international scene. However, Chikhosi lack of funds could the main challenge.
“We have quality players to compete at the top level. The tournament can help local clubs to gain international exposure. But lack of funds could be the only challenge for us,” Chikhosi said.
Sunshine contribute several players to the Malawi women’s national football team namely Sabina Thom, Samir Amidu, Wezzie Mvula, Ellanisio Mhango and Chimwemwe Madise.
Previously, Sunshine was playing friendlies in Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa under the sponsorship of David Dube. The team has produced stars such as China-based Tabitha Chawinga and her sister Temwa.
Blantyre Zero founder/ coach Maggie Chombo-Sadik also welcomed the idea saying it would help expose players.
“We just need to plan for such tournaments if we want to take part. Lack of funds should not be used as an excuse and it is possible to secure sponsors for the competitions,” she said.
Zero also contribute some of the players to the Scorchers such as Zainab Kapanda, Salomy Vinkhumbo and Mary Chavinda.
Apart from Sunshine and Zero, Skippers and Ntopwa Super Queens are some of teams who contribute players to the national team.
Currently, there are no interclub competitions for women football club on the continent. Malawian women’s players gain exposure through the Cosafa Cup and Olympic qualifiers. Caf has only competitions for men’s football and local clubs Nyasa Big Bullets, Silver Strikers, Masters Security and Be Forward Wanderers have participated in the elite club competitions.
