Legislators Reflect on Flames’ Loss to Burundi Amid Preparations for Upcoming Qualifiers

Politics John Brightwater September 7, 2024

Legislators Reflect on Flames’ Loss to Burundi Amid Preparations for Upcoming Qualifiers

In a noteworthy session on Friday morning, legislators convened to deliberate on the Malawi National Team’s recent defeat to Burundi as the Flames prepared for their journey to Mali for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Burkina Faso. The discourse was initiated by Symon Vuwa Kaunda, the Member of Parliament for Nkhatabay Central, who called upon the Ministry of Sports to provide an explanation regarding the Flames’ disheartening 2-3 loss to Burundi at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.

Mr. Kaunda expressed his embarrassment at the team’s performance on home soil, characterizing the event as a significant disaster for the nation’s football reputation. Richard Chimwendo Banda, the Leader of the House, echoed these sentiments, labeling the final goal conceded as ‘tsoka’, which translates to a bad omen. Nevertheless, he emphasized the importance of legislators advocating for increased funding for the Ministry of Sports to facilitate the improvement of the national team.

Despite the setback, Mr. Banda conveyed optimism for the Flames’ prospects in upcoming fixtures. The parliamentary session was adjourned early to allow members to witness the match firsthand. Following the game, the Flames’ players and technical staff departed from Lilongwe, en route to Mali for their qualifier against Burkina Faso. Coach Patrick Mabedi expressed hope for a favorable result in this forthcoming match.

The remaining players are set to depart later today via a connecting flight through Addis Ababa, where they will reunite with their colleagues before proceeding to Bamako, Mali. The upcoming encounter represents a crucial opportunity for the Flames to redeem themselves after their recent loss and aims to instill a renewed sense of vigor within the team.