Temwa’s Powerful Start of NWSL Legacy
We are in an era where fresh talent is making headlines, disrupting norms, and breaking long-standing records. When Sam Kerr left the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), her records seemed untouchable—until Chawinga Temwa stepped onto the scene. The 26-year-old Malawian forward has brought unmatched energy to the pitch, playing for the Kansas City Current in the NWSL.
Earlier this year, the 5’8” forward signed a two-year contract with Kansas City, making history as the first Malawian professional player to compete in the league’s top tier.
Breaking Records and Making History
Temwa has been a success since she joined the club in January 2024. Ali Krieger, a former professional soccer player, described Temwa as a confident and intense player who could not dare be left out of the starting eleven. These remarks were made after Temwa netted her first goal for Kansas against Angel City.
Following her first goal, the Malawian National team player has not slowed down her scoring spree. On October 12, she scored her 19th goal, surpassing Sam Kerr’s record. Temwa has a proven record of goal scoring, netting 51 goals for Wuhan Jianghan University F.C. It’s no surprise that this dynamic player surpassed the records of her predecessors. As 2023 concluded, Temwa received the International Federation of Football History and Statistics Award as the leading top scorer of the year. In fact, her goal-scoring record for 2023 was nine goals higher than Cristiano Ronaldo’s 54 goals registered.
On October 19th, Temwa proved that she is a force to be reckoned with in the NWSL, leading her team to a win against San Diego Wave in a 4-1 victory where she scored her 20th goal. This made her the first NWSL player to score against every other team in the league in one season.
Malawi Roots, Global Impact
The young athlete has an elder sister, Tabitha Chawinga, who also plays professionally for Olympique Lyonnais Feminine in France. The two sisters, whose journey started in Malawi, have become global sensations in their field.
Temwa, whose name means happiness and love, has revealed that her mother once stopped Tabitha from playing soccer. However, Tabitha defiantly continued to play the game she loved.
Women’s sports are still a controversial topic of discussion in African homesteads, with the belief that girls and women shouldn’t be involved in active sports. Temwa highly attributes her international debut to her sister, Tabitha, who paved the way for her through the networks she built on her journey to professionalism.
The duo hopes that their international success plays a great role in mindset shifts in African homesteads and attitudes and stereotypes toward women’s sports.
Temwa’s Impact, Drive, and Future
Temwa’s records have contributed to Kansas City’s record, becoming the only team in the NWSL to have over 50 goals scored in one season. The club now sits in the 3rd position below Washington Spirit and Gotham FC compared to last year when the club was in the 11th position and failed to appear in the post-regular season games.
Why Chawinga Temwa is a game changer in NWSL
Inspiring Role Model: As the first Malawian professional in the NWSL, Temwa’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring athletes, especially young girls in Africa and other underrepresented regions, proving that reaching the highest levels of the sport is possible.
Expanding Global Representation: Her presence in the NWSL adds valuable diversity, helping to internationalize the league and attract a wider audience. It also shows that talent exists across all continents, encouraging more scouting and opportunities for players worldwide.
Boosting the NWSL’s Appeal: Temwa’s success brings a fresh narrative to the NWSL, captivating fans and media attention. Her energy and style of play make games more exciting and have the potential to draw new fans to women’s soccer.
Cultural Exchange and Team Dynamics: Players like Temwa bring unique playing styles and perspectives that enhance the collaborative and strategic nature of soccer. Her international experience adds depth to team dynamics and promotes cultural exchange.
Overall, Chawinga Temwa represents a wave of talented players transforming the soccer landscape, making it more inclusive, competitive, and dynamic.
