Banda strikes early as Zambia build two-goal half-time lead over Malawi

Barbra Banda scored after just two minutes as Zambia made the perfect start against Malawi in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with Chilufya adding a second before the interval to give the Copper Queens a 2-0 half-time lead.

The early goal came from Zambia’s first opportunity of the match. Banda, a consistent threat for the Copper Queens, finished the chance to put her side in front almost immediately and provide an ideal platform for the rest of the opening half.

Malawi were not discouraged by the setback. Rather than allowing the early concession to decide the contest, they responded with courage and produced a strong challenge in open play. Their reaction ensured Zambia could not simply dictate the match after taking the lead.

The Copper Queens, however, remained the more clinical side in front of goal. While Malawi continued to compete strongly, Zambia’s efficiency eventually proved decisive. Chilufya found the net in the 37th minute, doubling the advantage and giving her team the breathing space of a two-goal cushion.

That second goal changed the position of the match at the break. Zambia went into half-time with a 2-0 advantage and in a position of strength, having turned their early attacking opportunity into a commanding lead. Malawi’s efforts to remain competitive had not been enough to prevent the Copper Queens from extending their advantage before the interval.

For Malawi, the challenge now is to produce a significant response after the restart. They will need both a tactical adjustment and a strong mental reaction if they are to change the direction of the game and put pressure back on Zambia.

The second half therefore begins with Zambia holding the advantage created by two moments of attacking effectiveness: Banda’s early finish and Chilufya’s goal shortly before half-time. Malawi have shown the courage to resist after conceding quickly, but they must find a way to convert that resistance into a more threatening response when play resumes.

At the interval, the scoreline reflects Zambia’s greater efficiency in the decisive moments. The Copper Queens have taken their opportunities, while Malawi face the task of overturning a two-goal deficit in the remainder of the match.