Malawian women’s football star Tabitha Chawinga’s dream to win the prestigious Uefa Women’s Champions League title is alive after her team Olympique Lyon beat English side Arsenal 2-1 in the first semi-final leg.
The Malawi Women’s Football Team captain did not score as Kadidiatuo Diani and Melchie Dumornay’s goal ensured a 2-1 victory for Lyon ahead of the second leg clash at home on April 27.
Diani scored in the 17th minute but it was cleared after video assistant referee over a possible off side.
But Arsenal approached the second half a well organised team with a menacing raids into their opponents territory.
They effort paid off when they were awarded a penalty after Lyon goalkeeper was penalised for punching an Arsenal player in a goal-melee inside the penalty box.
Mariona Caldentey sent Lyon goalkeeper the wrong way to score the equaliser in the 77th minute to keep their hopes alive.
But Lyon restored the lead in the 84th minute and weathered the storm to take a 2-1 lead in the second leg.
Chawinga, who is the competition’s fasted player, was quiet but made her trademark explosive runs, occasionally.
She took to social media celebrating the first hurdle to reach the final with either Chelsea or Barcelona waiting should they progress.
“One step enroute to Lisbon. Enjoy the highlights,” said Chawinga.
Compatriot Silver Strikers Chief Executive Officer Patrick Chimimba was among the over 40,000 crowd who watched the match.
Chimimba, who is studying Master’s degree in sports management and entrepreneurship under Chevening scholarship, enjoyed the rare moment when Chawinga took a selfie.
