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Malawi/Senegal: Zitheka? Malawi’s Flames Face Uphill Battle Against Senegal in Afcon Qualifiers Today

todayOctober 11, 2024 4

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As the Malawi National Football Team prepares to clash with Africa’s highest-ranked side today, Senegal’s Lions of Teranga, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Scheduled for a crucial 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier at the Diamniadio Olympic Stadium in Dakar, this match is pivotal for the Flames, who find themselves in a precarious position after two disappointing losses.

The Flames opened their Group L campaign with a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Burundi Swallows, followed by a 3-1 loss to Burkina Faso in Bamako, leaving them at the bottom of the group without a point. With four matches remaining, Malawi’s path to qualification is fraught with challenges, necessitating victories in all their upcoming games, starting with back-to-back matches against Senegal.

Coach Patrick Mabedi, despite the odds stacked against his team, remains optimistic. “There’s a lot at stake to play for,” he stated in a pre-match interview. “We need to dig deep so that we can have at least some points. Good results are very important for us.” Mabedi’s confidence is commendable, but it will be put to the test against a formidable Senegalese squad brimming with talent.

Senegal boasts a lineup filled with Europe-based superstars, including Chelsea’s Nicholas Jackson, Crystal Palace’s Ismaïla Sarr, and Al Nassr’s Sadio Mane, the nation’s all-time top scorer. This roster represents not just individual skill, but also a cohesive team that recently showcased its quality on the international stage, making them a daunting opponent for any side, particularly one struggling like Malawi.