By Mabvuto Kambuwe & Peter Fote:
Malawi Women’s National Football Team striker Temwa Chawinga ended five-game goal drought in the National Women’s Soccer League when she netted a brace in Kansas City Current 5-2 victory over Seattle Reign at CPKC Stadium Monday.
Before Monday’s match, Temwa had scored for the club on May 6 in a 1-1 stalemate against Houston Dash.
The brace means Temwa has revived her hope of winning the 2024 NWSL Golden Boot award.
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She scored her first goal in the 28th minute before completing her brace two minutes after the break. Lauren, Vanessa Di Bernado and Loeau LaBonta scored a goal each for Kansas whereas J Huitema netted a brace for Reign.
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“Chawinga’s goal capped an excellent team move, which started from a long ball forward by defender Elizabeth Ball. Ball’s pass was perfectly weighted for Michelle Cooper, who made a bursting run down the right side of Seattle’s defence and made it to the byline unopposed. She slid a ball across the penalty area for Chawinga who was wide open at the back post to tap into the empty net,” reported Kansas City website.
Temwa is third on the goal scorers list with seven goals from 12 matches, two goals behind Sophia Smith of Portland Thorns FC.
Zambian striker Barbara Banda of Orlando Pride is second with eight goals.
In an interview from her base Monday, Temwa said she was excited to help her club to get maximum points.
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“It feels great to score two goals for the club. My focus is to help the team win the title this year,” she said.
Meanwhile, National Women’s Football Association (NWFA) Chairperson Adellaide Migogo hailed Temwa’s hard working spirit.
“The most dangerous and important thing about this player is that she is a fighter who never gives up. She is a complete team player who will always assist others if not in a scoring position. I would urge other players to emulate her mentality in the game,” Migogo said
Football Association of Malawi (Fam) President Fleetwood Haiya said his administration would strive to export more female players abroad.
“We have seen so many success stories in women’s football and we will continue to invest more resources,” Haiya said.
Following the win, Kansas are top of the log table with 28 points from 12 matches, above second-placed Orlando on goal difference.
