In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Malawi’s national football team, the Flames, saw their African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 hopes extinguished after a stunning 96th minute free kick by Senegal’s Sadio Mane sealed a 1-0 victory at the Bingu National Stadium on Tuesday.
The highly anticipated match, attended by Malawi’s Vice President Dr. Michael Bizwick Usi, who was cheering on the Flames, saw the home team put up a valiant effort but ultimately lose to Senegal’s relentless pressure.
- Government’s sudden transfer of health workers raises eyebrowsBy Jones Gadama A recent decision by the government to transfer seven health workers from their current duty stations has…
- Concerned Citizen warns Chimwendo that Malawians are watching him
By Vincent Gunde A Concerned Citizen from Bembe in Rumphi district Pokani Mtimbura Luhanga, has warned Malawi Congress Party (MCP)… - Chibavi Youth Football Festival returns for second edition
By Aubrey Thom Vakhani The Chibavi Youth Football Festival is set to return for its second edition on April 19,… - Toyota Fortuner 2025 Model: More Tech, More Comfort, Same Legendary Capability – The Complete PackageThe Toyota Fortuner 2025 is an SUV that has its head held high in todays market flooded with SUV wannabes…
- FDH Bank boosts digital banking with vaa vaa vroom promotion
By Burnett Munthali FDH Bank has rewarded 50 lucky customers with K100,000 each in the first draw of its FDH…
Despite making several changes to the lineup, including the introduction of William Thole and Macdonald Lameck, Malawi struggled to find their footing against the formidable Senegalese side.
The first half saw both teams create scoring opportunities, with Wisdom Mpinganjira and John Banda coming close for Malawi, while Senegal’s attacks were consistently thwarted by the Flames’ defense.
In the second half, Senegal dominated possession, forcing Malawi’s coach, Patrick Mabedi, to make tactical substitutions, introducing Chifundo Mphasi and Lloyd Aaron for Lanjesi Nkhoma and Chawanangwa Kaonga.
However, it was Senegal’s superstar, Sadio Mane, who proved to be the difference-maker, converting a free kick in the 96th minute after Robert Saizi fouled a Senegalese player.
The loss leaves Malawi winless and point-less in Group L, with Burkina Faso and Senegal already securing their spots in the 2025 AFCON tournament.
Vice President Dr Michael Usi, praised the Flames for their effort but acknowledged the team’s limitations.
“We appreciate the team’s hard work and dedication, but we must also recognize our shortcomings and work towards improvement,” he said.
The defeat marks a disappointing end to Malawi’s AFCON 2025 journey, with the team failing to replicate their past successes.
