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.

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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.