Malawi’s Under-20 national football team surged into the semi-finals of the COSAFA U-20 Championship with a commanding 2-0 win over hosts Namibia on Tuesday afternoon, finishing top of Group B. Goals from Lameck Mithi and Clifford Chisale in the final 10 minutes sealed the win and silenced the home crowd.
Mithi, who opened the scoring in the 80th minute and was named Man of the Match, was instrumental in a performance that showed maturity and purpose. Chisale’s goal deep into stoppage time was the icing on the cake for a side that looks increasingly confident with every game.
The Flames started their campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Zimbabwe, powered by a clinical brace from Mwisho Mhango, who took home the Man of the Match accolade. Against Botswana, they took the lead again through Mhango but were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw.
Tuesday’s win over Namibia was a statement. Malawi topped their group with 7 points and head into the knockout stage unbeaten. Their growth over the three matches has been clear, both in results and in their style of play.
Head coach Milias Pofera Jegwe struck a confident tone after the final whistle. “We silenced the crowd—the only way to do that is by scoring goals. And we didn’t stop at one. That’s beautiful for Malawi,” he said, praising his players’ composure under pressure.
Jegwe emphasized the team’s progression and hunger for success. “Every game is a learning point. We’re here to grab the trophy. Nothing short of the trophy,” he declared, making it clear that simply reaching the semi-finals isn’t enough.
Malawi’s next opponent is yet to be confirmed, but with their momentum, tactical discipline, and belief growing stronger, one thing is certain—the young Flames are not just in this tournament to compete. They’re here to win it.
Luciano Fanuel, James Musongole, Kondwani Tebulo, Precious Manjawira, Precious Kwalenga, Misheck Billiat ( Lackson Wahita 87 (Maxwell Sakanamba 90+4)), Yusuf Nantunga), Moffat Mnyontho, Madalitso Safuli, Mwisho Mhango (Sidreck Maxwell 90′), Lameck Mithi (Clifford Chisale 90+4)
Unused subs
Chisomo Mdoka ,Sidreck Maxwell , Felix Jalasi
