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Rabat – Malawi will wrap up their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers with a home game against Burkina Faso today at 2 p.m. Moroccan time at the Bingu National Stadium.
Fans can catch the action live on Canal+ Afrique.
The Malawian Flames have had a tough campaign, but currently sit at the bottom of Group L, while their opponents are second behind group leaders Senegal.
The Flames’ qualification hopes were dashed long ago after a string of poor results. With just one point to show from five matches, they won’t make the tournament for the second time in a row. However, they’ll hope to end on a positive note in front of their fans.
Malawi’s road to this point has been rocky. They kicked off with a 3-2 loss to Burundi, followed by a 3-1 defeat to Burkina Faso and heavy losses to Senegal, including a crushing 4-0 in Dakar. Their most recent match—a goalless draw with Burundi—gave them a morale boost, but the Flames have struggled to find the net, going three games without a goal.
In contrast, Burkina Faso’s Stallions have had a solid run, earning 10 points and booking their place at AFCON 2025. Even though they lost narrowly to Senegal last week, the Stallions are assured of finishing second in the group.
Team news
Malawi coach Kalisto Pasuwa is expected to shake up his squad for the final game, giving opportunities to players who haven’t featured much. Striker Frank Mhango, who impressed against Burundi, is likely to start again. Midfielder Yankho Singo is a doubt due to a knock and could be replaced by Lloyd Aaron.
For Burkina Faso, coach Brama Traore may also rotate his lineup. Fringe players like Ousmane Camara and Josue Tiendrebeogo are set to start, while key stars such as Cedric Badolo and Ousseni Bouda could be rested.
Malawi will need a win and a bit of luck to climb to third place. They’ll also be keeping an eye on the Senegal vs. Burundi game, hoping the Lions of Teranga can help their cause.
With nothing left to lose, the Flames have one last chance to give their fans something to cheer about. For Burkina Faso, it’s a chance to experiment as they prepare for Morocco in 2025.
Predicted lineup
Malawi: Chokooka; Lameck, Chembezi, Petro, Lungu; Aaron, Njaliwa, Chirwa, Nkhoma, Mhango; Kaonga
Burkina Faso: F Ouedraogo; M Ouedraogo, Dayo, Tapsoba, Yago; Simpore; Camara, Banse, Tiendrebeogo, Bande; Traore
Predicted score:
Malawi 2-1 Burkina Faso
