South Africa beat Malawi 2-0 on Sunday at Loftus Stadium, ending Malawi's hopes for the CAF African Nations Championship. The Flames entered with a 1-0 lead but needed at least a tie to make their first-ever appearance. Peter Mponda coached instead of Kalisto Pasuwa, starting Promise Kamwendo over Zeliat Nkhoma. Malawi played defensively early, but Victor Letsoalo scored after eleven minutes when defenders lost track of him in the penalty area. The Flames tried attacking but never shot on goal during the first half.
George Chikooka made several saves to keep Malawi alive as halftime approached. Chawanangwa Gumbo replaced Kamwendo after halftime, creating offensive chances. Macdonald Lameck managed a header at minute 50, forcing a save from the South African keeper. Binwell Katinji almost scored, but defenders blocked his attempt following a Gumbo pass. Malawi struggled late after Wongani Lungu left with an injury, replaced by Gaddie Chirwa. Maema scored with three minutes left when Malawi defenders failed to react as South Africans moved into the box. The final 2-0 score meant Malawi lost 2-1 on overall goals across both matches.
George Chikooka made several saves to keep Malawi alive as halftime approached. Chawanangwa Gumbo replaced Kamwendo after halftime, creating offensive chances. Macdonald Lameck managed a header at minute 50, forcing a save from the South African keeper. Binwell Katinji almost scored, but defenders blocked his attempt following a Gumbo pass. Malawi struggled late after Wongani Lungu left with an injury, replaced by Gaddie Chirwa. Maema scored with three minutes left when Malawi defenders failed to react as South Africans moved into the box. The final 2-0 score meant Malawi lost 2-1 on overall goals across both matches.
