The Malawi Under-20 national football team’s dream of continental glory ended in heartbreak on Sunday as they suffered a 3-0 defeat to South Africa in the COSAFA U-20 Championship final, played at the University of Namibia Stadium.
Making their first appearance in the final since 2002, the Junior Flames entered the match on the back of an inspiring campaign that saw them stun defending champions Zambia 2-1 in the semifinals. But against a well-drilled South African side — the Amajitas — Malawi’s youthful side was outclassed on the big stage.
South Africa wasted no time asserting their authority. In the 4th minute, Njabulo Mzimela opened the scoring after a slick assist from rising star Emile Witbooi, setting the tone for the match. Despite Malawi’s spirited attempts to fight back, they went into halftime trailing 1-0.
The second half brought more misery for Malawi. In the 64th minute, Simphiwe Mlondo doubled the lead before Omphemetse Sekgoto sealed the victory six minutes later — both goals showcasing South Africa’s clinical finishing, with Witbooi again providing an assist.
Malawi’s hopes of a comeback all but ended when Kondwani Tebulo was sent off in the 78th minute, reducing them to ten men.
Despite the defeat, there were bright spots for the Junior Flames. Mwisho Mhango’s remarkable tournament form earned him the Golden Boot with five goals, alongside the Player of the Tournament accolade — a rare double honor that underlined his standout performance.
While the final ended in disappointment, Malawi’s impressive run, breaking a 22-year finals drought, gave fans hope for the future of Malawian football.
