Andrew Mdzumira

Malawi national football team head coach Kalisto Pasuwa, has described the upcoming friendly match against Botswana on July 6 as a crucial fixture for the Flames.

The match, scheduled as part of the country’s Independence Day celebrations, is set to take place on Sunday and will provide the national team with a valuable opportunity to regroup and regain confidence following a disappointing performance at the 2025 COSAFA Cup in South Africa.

Speaking to the press, Pasuwa emphasized the importance of this encounter, highlighting that all 25 players he summoned for the fixture are present and ready.

“This is an important game, and all the players we called up including those who missed out on the recent COSAFA tournament like Lloyd Aaron and Alick Lungu are now with the team. No one has pulled out. Our focus is on securing a win,” said Pasuwa.

Malawi exited the COSAFA Cup without scoring a single goal, and Pasuwa acknowledged the need to address the team’s attacking shortcomings.

“As we prepare, we are working intensively on how we can improve offensively and find goals. For instance, we may deploy Chikumbutso Salima at right back, Gaddie Chirwa in a similar role, or even Blessings Mpokera at the back, depending on the system we use,” he explained.

Among the new faces in the squad are goalkeeper Joshua Waka from Blue Eagles, Elias Missi from Ekhaya FC and striker Blessings Mwalilino from Mighty Wanderers.

The match against Botswana will not only test the Flames’ readiness but also serve as a symbolic celebration of national pride on Independence Day.