By Rahim Abdul

Malawi’s boys’ and girls’ teams began their COSAFA Schools Championship campaigns with a statement of intent, not only through their victories but through the maturity and structure displayed in their performances.

The wins over Lesotho in Stellenbosch hinted at a football system that is steadily growing in confidence and identity.

For years, Malawi’s youth teams have shown flashes of brilliance without fully establishing consistency. But Friday’s matches reflected a country beginning to bridge that gap, as both teams delivered composed, disciplined and purposeful football.

The boys took early control of their match, showcasing tactical awareness uncommon at school level.

Their quick strikes from Innocent Jauma and Intias Adam within the first eight minutes highlighted Malawi’s readiness to impose their game early.

Even when Lesotho pulled one back late in the match, the boys showed composure, protecting their lead with improved game management an area that has cost them in past tournaments.

Head coach Joseph Malizani noted that the opening victory was not just about the scoreline but about the team’s ability to maintain structure under pressure.

He stressed that consistency will be key, especially against Botswana, a side known for its physicality.

Malizani believes that if Malawi stays disciplined, they can break the pattern of falling short in the final stages.

On the girls’ side, the 5–0 triumph did more than impress the scorekeepers it showcased Malawi’s increasing dominance in the women’s youth game.

Their creativity, passing rhythm and balanced team play reflected a squad that has grown after last year’s runner-up finish.

While the goals from Tryness Chawala, Flora Banda, Sifati Chitenje, Eunice Sitchaya and Talandira Kachala were headline-worthy, it was Malawi’s patience and build-up play that truly defined the win.

Coach Bridget Chirwa’s emphasis on mental readiness paid off as the team overcame a slow start to completely control the match.

Chirwa said the game showed how much the girls have matured in reading the game and adjusting their tempo.

She expects a tougher challenge against Botswana but expressed confidence in her squad’s ability to adapt  one of the key elements missing in previous editions but now clearly improving.

The broader story of the day was Malawi’s evolution. The boys’ three-year journey of near triumphs two runner-up finishes and a semifinal appearance appears to be shaping a mentally tougher squad. The girls, having also experienced highs and lows since 2022, now look more balanced and less reliant on individual brilliance.