Despite missing some of his key players, Malawi women’s National Football team Coach, Abel Mkandawire is hopeful of reaching semifinals of the 2019 Council for Southern Africa Football Association-COSAFA Women’s Championship in South Africa.

Malawi begins their campaign against Madagascar at Wolfon Stadium on Wednesday(31st July) in Port Elizabeth without Captain Tabintha Chawinga and her sister, Temwa, who have failed to make the trip because of club commitments.

Vice-Captain Madina Ngulube is also out after suffering a knee injury during training.

Speaking to Report Ficus News, She-Flames Coach, said he was targeting a semifinal finish at the regional showpiece.

“We are on a serious mission to qualify for the semifinals. Of course, this will not be easy but my players are hungry for success,” Mkandawire said.

The She-Flames are in Group A alongside hosts and defending champions South Africa, debutants Comoros Islands and Madagascar.

Tabitha plays in China while Temwa plies her trade in Sweden.

But Mkandawire will bank his hopes on seasoned players such as Linda Kasenda, Salome and Towera Vinkhumbo, Bridget Mkuzilire and Sabina Thom.

Leader of delegation Suzgo Ngwira, who is also National Women’s Football Association Chairperson, said she was optimistic of doing well at the tournament.

The team has prepared well and players are in great shape. We hope that they will do better than last year, Ngwira said.

Just like Malawi, South Africa will also be without some overseas players including Thembi Kgatlana due to club commitments.

Last year, Malawi failed to progress to the semifinals after losing two games to South Africa (6-0) and Botswana (2- 0). The She-Flames had earlier beaten Madagascar 2-0.

The overall winner from each group will advance to the semifinals and will be joined by the best loser.