The Flames yesterday ended Brave Warriors of Namibia’s seven-game unbeaten record with a 2-1 victory in the 2026 Fifa World Cup Group H tie at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, Botswana.
The match saw the Flames showing rare tactical discipline against a highly rated Brave Warriors who were unbeaten in seven matches.
Mozambique-based Richard Mbulu and South Africa-based Gabadinho Mhango proved their seniority with superb strikes in each half while Namibia netted through David Ndeunyema.
It only took five minutes for the Flames to show their intent to revenge the loss to Namibia in March when Mbulu pounced on a back pass and outpaced two defenders before slotting past advancing Namibia’s goalkeeper.
Startled by the early goal, the hosts panicked and flew everything at the Flames, but Malawi simply absorbed the pressure.
However, Malawi was dealt a blow in the 38th minute when goalkeeper William Thole was stretchered following an injury.
Substitute George Chikooka stepped in and managed to keep Malawi in the lead at half-time.
The hosts only managed to expose themselves and conceded yet again when Gabadinho timely intercepted a pass, and the Flames top goal-scorer unleashed a volley just before the centre circle over Namibia goalie who left his line to support his charges.
Gabadinho had a chance to score his second only to shoot wide with Namibia goalkeeper Edward Maova beaten.
He yet again saw his effort hit the cross bar moments later.
As if that was not enough, Gaba’s header was parried onto the post as the Flames searched for the third goal.
Namibia got their goal in the 86th minute when the Flames failed to deal with dipping cross which Ndeunyema headed past a rooted Chokooka.
Though Namibia stepped up their attack in search for an equalizer, it was too little too late.
In a post-match interview, Pasuwa thanked his charges for their tactical discipline.
He however, rued missed chances.
“We could have even scored three, four, five goals. But unfortunately, maybe, as you know, also we’re coming from a loss and it’s a win,” he said.
