Blantyre, Malawi – Malawi’s national football team, the Flames, is gearing up for upcoming tournaments, including the Cosafa Cup and an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Under the guidance of head coach Patrick Mabedi, the team is determined to showcase their skills and secure positive results.
The Flames will conclude the group stage of the Cosafa Cup against Comoros on July 11 at Chatsworth Stadium. This year’s edition of the tournament features a new format, with all teams starting from the group stages. The traditional Plate Section has been eliminated. The twelve participating teams have been divided into three groups of four sides. The pool winners and the best runner-up will advance to the semi-finals. The pool games will take place from July 5 to 12, with the semi-finals scheduled for July 14. The final and third-place play-off will be held two days later.
Last year, the Flames, under the leadership of former coach Mario Marinica, experienced mixed results in the Cosafa Cup. They secured a narrow 1-0 victory against a second-string Mauritius side, drew 1-1 against e-Swatini, and suffered a 2-1 loss to Lesotho, which resulted in their elimination at the group stage.
This year, the Flames will be under the guidance of Patrick Mabedi, who previously served as Marinica’s assistant coach. Mabedi aims to lead the team to success in the upcoming tournaments. Before the Cosafa Cup, the Flames will face Ethiopia in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on June 20 in Maputo, Mozambique.
In preparation for the upcoming matches, the Flames’ local-based players recently concluded a pre-camp training session. Mabedi expressed satisfaction with the players’ commitment and performance during the training sessions. He stated that the team had overcome minor injury concerns and was now fully prepared for the upcoming challenges.
Mabedi intends to announce the squad for the Mozambique trip on Monday morning before the team departs in the afternoon. The former Kaizer Chiefs captain expressed optimism about the squad’s potential, highlighting the players’ energy and dedication.
The Flames’ participation in both the Cosafa Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier presents an opportunity for Malawi to showcase its football talent on a regional and continental stage. With the guidance of Coach Mabedi and the determination of the players, the nation hopes for a successful campaign and positive results.
