Malawi stun Burkina Faso with emphatic 3-0 win, end campaign on ...
Published: Monday, 18 November 2024
Malawi delivered a stunning performance in their final Group L match of the CAF TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers, defeating Burkina Faso 3-0 at the Bingu National Stadium on Monday.
Despite the result, the group standings remain unchanged as Senegal and Burkina Faso advance to Morocco.
Coming into the match, the Flames had endured a torrid run, failing to win any of their last 10 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON qualifiers.
However, they stunned their opponents with a commanding display. Gabadinho Mhango broke the deadlock in the 28th minute with a sensational long-range strike, giving Malawi a 1-0 lead at halftime.
The second half saw Richard Mbulu double the Flames' advantage in the 57th minute with a perfectly placed header.
Lloyd Aaron sealed the emphatic victory in the 62nd minute, converting from close range after a slick team move.
The win marked a morale-boosting end to their otherwise disappointing campaign, though they still finish bottom of the group due to an inferior goal difference compared to Burundi.
The Stallions, who had already secured qualification, struggled to find their rhythm. Despite several attempts, including a late header by Issoufou Dayo, the Stallions could not capitalize on their chances.
Key players like Steeve Yago and Cédric Badolo were unable to inspire the team, which looked uncharacteristically disjointed.
The loss means Burkina Faso finish the group stage with 10 points, firmly in second place behind Senegal.
Their impressive early campaign ensured they clinched qualification prior to this fixture, but this defeat exposed gaps they’ll need to address before the tournament in Morocco.
Group leaders Senegal, unbeaten in the qualifiers, will look to maintain their perfect record when they face Burundi in the final group game on Tuesday.
With 13 points already, the Lions of Teranga have been dominant, scoring eight goals and conceding just one.
Final Group L Standings: Senegal – 13 points (4 wins, 1 draw, 0 losses) Burkina Faso – 10 points (3 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses) Burundi – 4 points (1 win, 1 draw, 3 losses) Malawi – 4 points (1 win, 1 draw, 4 losses)
