The Malawi Under-17 Girls’ National Football Team finished as runners-up at the 2025 COSAFA Championship after a 3-0 defeat to Zambia in the final held in Windhoek, Namibia.

Coach Chisomo Nkhoma made four changes to the starting lineup, bringing in Tryness Chawala, Chisomo Mtelera, Juliet Kalua, and Jacqueline Kamputa in place of semi-final goal-scorer Talandira Kachala, Ethel Tambala, Alinafe Nyirenda, and Cecilia Nzima.

Malawi suffered an early setback when key defender Ongani Masamba was stretchered off due to injury and replaced by Chrissy Munthali.

Zambia struck twice in quick succession, with tournament standout and captain Ruth Mukoma opening the scoring in the 22nd minute, followed by Natasha Kasema just five minutes later. Zambia sealed their dominant first half with a third goal in added time.

The second half saw a much-improved performance from Malawi. Substitutions brought in Kachala, Nyirenda, and Tamandani Chilimba, helping the team gain more control and create several chances, though they struggled to convert.

In a rare change, Coach Nkhoma also substituted her starting goalkeeper, who had played every match in the tournament, due to an injury sustained in a collision. She was replaced by Bridget Afiki, who helped keep Zambia from scoring again.

Despite the loss, Malawi held their ground in the second half, demonstrating resilience and discipline.