By Rahim Abdul
Malawi National Football Team coach Kalisto Pasuwa has called for unity and togetherness after the Flames were handed a challenging Group B draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Flames were on Tuesday drawn alongside African giants Egypt, Angola and South Sudan during the official draw held in Cairo.
Despite facing experienced opponents, Pasuwa believes Malawi still has a realistic chance of qualifying if all stakeholders rally behind the team and work towards one goal.
The Zimbabwean tactician said what will matter most in the campaign is not the strength of opponents but the spirit within the Flames camp.
Pasuwa warned against divisions and unnecessary criticism, saying qualification for the continental showpiece will require support from players, officials and supporters alike.
“We just need to pull in the same direction and avoid infighting. It is a collective effort,” said Pasuwa after the draw.
Malawi will once again renew rivalry with Egypt, a side the Flames previously faced during the 2010 and 2023 AFCON qualifying campaigns.
The Flames also have fresh memories against South Sudan after meeting them during the successful 2021 AFCON qualifiers where Malawi booked a place at the finals and reached the Round of 16.
Angola also remain familiar opponents after previously facing Malawi at the 2010 AFCON finals, making Group B one filled with history and experience for the Flames.
The top two teams from each group will automatically qualify for the 2027 AFCON finals which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
