By Rahim Abdul
Malawi Queens remain within touching distance of the Netball World Cup after reaching the semi-finals of the Africa Netball Cup, despite suffering their first defeat of the tournament against Uganda on Wednesday.
Uganda ended Malawi’s unbeaten run with a 54-49 victory in their fourth match of the competition, but the result did not prevent the Queens from progressing to the last four.
Malawi earlier recorded victories over Zambia, Kenya and Nigeria, performances that have kept their World Cup hopes firmly alive.
The Queens endured a difficult start against Uganda, falling 19-4 behind at the end of the first quarter as their opponents established an early advantage.
Uganda continued to control the match in the second quarter, taking a 34-19 lead into the half-time break.
Malawi returned from the break with a much-improved performance and gradually reduced the deficit as the game progressed.
By the end of the third quarter, the Queens cut Uganda’s lead to four goals, with the Ugandans leading 42-38.
Uganda, however, held their nerve during Malawi’s late fightback to secure a five-goal victory and hand the Queens their first loss of the tournament.
Despite the setback, Malawi now have another opportunity to secure their place at the global showpiece when they face South Africa in the semi-finals on Thursday.
A victory over South Africa will guarantee the Malawi Queens a place at the World Cup.
If Malawi lose to South Africa, they will have another chance to qualify when they face Zimbabwe in a decisive match, with the winner securing the World Cup qualification spot.
