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.
- Breaking News: UDF Withdraws from Joint Press Briefing with DPP, AFORD, and UTM
By Burnett Munthali In a sudden development, the United Democratic Front (UDF) has pulled out of a scheduled joint press briefing that was set to take place today in Lilongwe. The briefing, which was to include other major political parties such as the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), and United Transformation Movement… - Lawyer Alexius Kamangila Questions Judicial Accountability and Independence on Facebook
By Burnett Munthali Prominent lawyer Alexius Kamangila has taken to his Facebook page to raise concerns over the lack of progress on the Judicial Service Commission Bill in Malawi. In his post, Kamangila highlighted the Ministry of Justice’s reluctance to introduce the bill to Parliament, despite it being under discussion since 2013. He noted that… - The High Court Refers Cassim Chilumpha’s Treason Case to the Constitutional Court
By Burnett Munthali In a significant development in the long-standing legal saga surrounding former Vice President Cassim Chilumpha, the High Court in Blantyre has referred his case to the Constitutional Court. This decision comes as Chilumpha and former politician Yusuf Matumula face treason charges dating back to 2006, stemming from allegations of a plot to… - European Union Resumes Budget Support to Malawi After Over a Decade
By Burnett Munthali In a significant development for Malawi’s financial landscape, the European Union (EU) has officially resumed budget support to the country after more than ten years. The announcement was made on Wednesday, marking a crucial step towards strengthening Malawi’s public services, particularly in the education sector. The total value of the support amounts… - James Chimwaza and Lucy Ganiza Crowned Champions at the Minet Malawi Senior Golfers Tournament
By Burnett Munthali The Minet Malawi Senior Golfers Tournament, held on Tuesday at the Limbe Country Club, concluded with thrilling performances as James Chimwaza and Lucy Ganiza emerged as the champions of their respective categories. This annual event, which attracted 38 seasoned golfers, highlighted the impressive skills and sportsmanship of Malawi’s senior golfing community. Chimwaza…
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.
