South Africa-based Malawian forward Frank GabadinhoMhango says the Flames have been drawn in a tough 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) group.
The draw held in Johannesburg on Thursday, saw the Flames being drawn in Group L alongside Senegal’s Teranga Lions, the Stallions of Burkina Faso and the Swallows of Burundi.
The Marumo Gallants forward, who finished joint leading scorer at the 2021 edition held in Cameroon, said all the teams in the group are strong.
He said: “To be honest, we do not need to be draped in a mask of patriotism to realise that it is not an easy group if we are eyeing qualification and this is not meant to instil fear in anyone, it’s just the reality.
“Senegal and Burkina Faso are the favourites, but even Burundi are coming up.
“But that does not mean we should give up easily. If we prepare well, we could salvage something and those that will be selected for the task need to be strong and stand up to be counted,” said the 31-year-old, who was left out of the squad that faced Principe and Sao Tome and Equatorial Guinea in 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers last month.
Mhango also said the team will need to be beefed up with some experienced players.
“I am not saying the squad that is there is not good, neither am I saying that I should be part of the team. But to compete against such teams, we will need some experienced players,” he said.
Football analyst Kevin Moyo said Malawians should not have too much expectations.
He said: “This is very tough group for us. Obviously, the favourites are Senegal and Burkina Faso.
“The only team at our level is Burundi, which has also improved a lot and I wouldn’t be surprised if we finished last. If we do qualify, which happens in football, then it will be a bonus, but the odds are stacked against us
“Realistically, we should not put pressure on the coach and the players, rather we should take this as an opportunity to build for 2027 Afcon qualification.”
The Flames are currently ranked 35th in Africa and 125th in the world, Senegal are second on the continent and 18th in the world, Burkina Faso are 16th in Africa and 67th in the world while Burundi are 41st on the continent and 140 in the world.
