By Sports Writer/Agencies
Malawi narrowly dominated the Zimbabwean girls throughout the game with an impressive display of skills and determination to secure the crucial result, which keeps them in second position on the log table and qualifies them for the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup.
The first quarter ended with Malawi leading 12-8, followed by a 22-20 advantage for Malawi at halftime.
The third quarter saw Malawi maintain a slender 33-32 lead, setting up a tense final quarter that ultimately ended 42-41 in Malawi’s favor.
The young Malawian side was riding high after a straight-set victory over neighboring Zambia on Thursday, winning 54-35.
The win against Zimbabwe has cemented Malawi’s second place on the log table with 10 points from 6 games, trailing log leaders and hosts South Africa, who have amassed 12 points from an equal number of games.
Zimbabwe remains in third position, level with fourth-placed Namibia on 6 points apiece from 6 games.
Malawi Under-21 will battle for continental honors against South Africa on Saturday, March 23, 2024, in their final match of the qualifiers.
South Africa, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Zambia have secured the top four spots and qualified for the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup finals, which will take place in Gibraltar.
The thrilling encounter between Malawi and Zimbabwe showcased the rising talent and competitiveness in youth netball on the African continent, setting the stage for an exciting future in the sport.
-Africabrief
