Malawi
national football team head coach Kalisto Pasuwa says the Flames’ international friendly against Botswana offered valuable lessons, despite ending in a penalty shootout defeat at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Sunday.
The match, part of Malawi’s 61st Independence Anniversary celebrations, ended 1-1 in regulation time before Botswana triumphed 3-0 on penalties.
Pasuwa, however, believes the result was secondary to the experience gained—especially as the team continues to rebuild.
“We can’t jump from zero to seven—you go one, two, three,” Pasuwa said post-match.
“If we’re given time, we’ll get there. These games are crucial for growth, especially as we identify and correct key areas of weakness.”
Malawi controlled the first half and created numerous scoring opportunities but failed to convert.
Botswana capitalized on a defensive lapse early in the second half, with Tebogo Kopelang putting the visitors ahead.
Wisdom Mpinganjira rescued the Flames with a late equalizer, but Malawi’s misfiring continued in the shootout, failing to convert all three penalties.
Despite the loss, Pasuwa noted improvement in some aspects of Malawi’s play—particularly in their buildup and positional discipline.
However, he stressed the need to sharpen the attack and transition phases, where Malawi continues to struggle.
“We dominated early, but one lapse and we were punished. The difference today was our finishing,” he said.
“We need to improve in the final third, where most of our attacking moves are breaking down.”
Botswana coach Morena Morebodi commended the Malawian side for their performance and thanked the hosts for their hospitality. He emphasized the importance of the match for his younger players, who benefitted from the high-pressure environment.
“This was a very competitive and well-organized fixture,” said Morebodi. “We had limited preparation, but the players showed discipline. Matches like this prepare them mentally for international duties.”
The match drew a large and festive crowd, with President Lazarus Chakwera and Botswana’s opposition leader Duma Gideon Boko in attendance.
