Malawi women’s football champions Ascent Soccer Academy are gearing up for the 2024 Caf Champions League/Cosafa Qualifier scheduled for Thursday at Mpira Stadium in Blantyre.
The team finalised preparations with a 5-1 victory over Ndirande Stars at Kamuzu Stadium on Monday.
Ascent are in Group B of the tournament, alongside debutants Gaborone United (Botswana), Uniao Desportiva de Lichinga (Mozambique), and Young Buffaloes (eSwatini).
They will start their campaign against Young Buffaloes from eSwatini on Friday, August 16, before meeting UD Lichinga from Mozambique two days later.
Ascent Coach Thom Mkolongo said the team is in good shape ahead of the tournament.
“We have prepared well and the girls are ready for the challenge. We know it will not be easy for any team, but playing at home will be an advantage,” Mkolongo said.
Ascent will conclude their group stage campaign against Gaborone United from Botswana on Tuesday.
All matches will be played at Mpira Stadium and fans will be able to watch the games for free.
Former Scorchers captain Linda Kasenda believes Ascent can pull off a surprise.
“Let the teams underrate Ascent at their own peril. Ascent have played together for a long time; so, technically and tactically, they are very strong,” she said.
Group A comprises 2022 winners Green Buffaloes (Zambia), University of Western Cape (South Africa), Zimbabwe champions Herentals Queens and FC Ongos (Namibia).
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