By Hastings Kasonjola Malunga:
Silver Strikers Ladies have arrived in Gaborone, Botswana, ahead of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Womens Champions League Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) qualifiers, with the Malawian champions set to begin their campaign against Costa do Sol of Mozambique on Friday.
The team arrived at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport on Wednesday after departing from Kamuzu International Airport earlier in the day.
Coach Andrew Chikhosi said the team was ready for the regional challenge after a period of preparations.
We had enough time to prepare and we are ready for the challenge, Chikhosi said.
Chikhosi said the Scorchers historic performance at the Womens Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco had also provided motivation for his players as they prepared to represent Malawi at club level.
He said the national teams achievement had inspired the squad to approach the competition with determination and confidence.
Five players who featured for the Scorchers during their WAFCON campaign have joined the Silver Strikers Ladies squad in Botswana.
They are Ireen Khumalo, Chikondi Gondwe, Tionge Phiri, Madyina Ngulube and Deborah Henry, who travelled directly from Morocco.
Silver Strikers Ladies will face Costa do Sol in their opening match on Friday, with the COSAFA qualifiers running until August 30.
The Malawian champions will be seeking to progress through the regional competition and secure a place in the CAF Womens Champions League.
