By Rahim Abdul
Malawi National Football Team coach Kalisto Pasuwa has stressed the importance of securing victories in upcoming matches as the Flames prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers scheduled to begin in September.
The Zimbabwean tactician believes positive results are crucial in boosting the confidence of his players before they embark on the demanding qualification campaign.
Speaking ahead of the team’s next assignment, Pasuwa acknowledged that the Flames have struggled in several key areas, particularly in the attacking department where creating clear scoring opportunities has remained a challenge.
He noted that the team has also lacked enough movement and aggression in the final third, factors he says have limited Malawi’s ability to convert possession into goals.
According to Pasuwa, addressing these weaknesses is vital if the Flames are to compete effectively against stronger opponents during the AFCON qualifiers.
The coach also expressed concern over the team’s recurring problems in defending set pieces, describing the situation as one that has repeatedly cost the side in recent matches.
He said Malawi has developed a worrying trend of conceding from corner-kicks, with opponents often capitalising on situations that should be easier to manage defensively.
Pasuwa warned that failure to improve in such areas could prove costly when the qualifiers get underway, as international teams are quick to punish defensive mistakes.
Despite the challenges, the Flames mentor remains optimistic that his players can respond positively and use upcoming fixtures to build momentum and restore belief within the squad.
With the countdown to the AFCON qualifiers already underway, Malawi’s technical panel is hoping that improved performances and winning results will lay a strong foundation for a successful qualification campaign.
