Mbulu decorated
The Malawi Defence Force (MDF) has honoured Richard Mbulu with a promotion for his contribution towards Flames’ 2022 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualification.
MDF spokesperson Major Emmanuel Mlelemba yesterday confirmed the South Africa-based forward’s promotion from the rank of corporal to sergeant.
The Baroka FC striker scored the priceless goal that took the Flames to the promised land following a 1-0 victory over Uganda Cranes at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre on March 29.
Reacting to his promotion in an interview last evening, Mlelemba said: “The promotion is purely in recognition of the contribution he made towards the national team’s qualification.
“That was a national cause and management felt he deserved to be rewarded. It is also a way of motivating him.”
In an interview yesterday, Mbulu said he felt honoured with the recognition.
“I am delighted that my bosses have seen it wise to recognise me for my contribution towards Flames qualification.
“I do not take it for granted and it is a big motivation. I will continue working hard to put my country on the map,” he said.
Ironically, when President Lazarus Chakwera hosted the Flames at Kamuzu Palace to congratulate them for that feat, vice-captain John ‘CJ’ Banda requested that Flames players who work for State security organs such as MDF and Malawi Police Service should be considered for promotion.
Mbulu struck the lone goal in the 15th minute and the beauty of it lay in both the creation and execution.
Right-back Stanley Sanudi curled in a cross with precision and, in a flash, the 27 year-old hitman timed his run to perfection to provide the final flourish with a stylish diving header that gave Uganda goaltender Dennis Onyango—rated the best goalkeeper on the continent—not a prayer.
In an interview after scoring the all-important goal, Mbulu said: “The way Sanudi delivered the cross was superb. When I got in touch with the ball and executed that diving header, I knew that there was no way Oyango—brilliant as he is—was going to stop it.
