Kaizer Chiefs defender Patrick Mabedi made his return to international football in fine form as he inspired Malawi to a 4-2 semifinal victory - on penalties - against Zambia in Blantyre on Saturday.

The hardworking Mabedi was named man of the match for his sterling performance at the back as Malawi thwarted wave after wave of Zambian attacks in their semifinals in Blantyre.

Sundowns defender Sashi Chalwe scored a rasping equaliser in the last minute of the match to force a 1-1 draw, but Malawi won 4-2 on penalties, even though Mabedi had his first kicked stopped in the shootout.

South African-based players on both side shone through the game with Jomo Cosmos striker Russell Mwafulirwa scoring the opening goal for Malawi in the 35th minute.

John Maduka was also back in Malawi's side after the local football association had apologised to them for derogatory remarks made last year but John Zingale, the former Football Association of Malawi president who called his SA-based professionals "goats".

Malawi now meet Zimbabwe or Swaziland in the final over two legs in September and October.

Zimbabwe host Swaziland in Bulawayo on August 31 in the second semifinal of this year's competition.

Last year, Malawi also reached the final but were beaten 4-1 on aggregate by South Africa.