Following Malawi’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Africa in the first leg of the 2025 CHAN qualifier, Football Association of Malawi (FAM) President Fleetwood Haiya has issued a passionate call to Malawians living in South Africa: turn up in large numbers and support the Flames in the decisive return leg set for May 11 in Pretoria.
The historic win at Bingu National Stadium—secured by a late Zeliati Nkhoma header—has given the Flames a narrow advantage heading into the second leg. However, Haiya believes triumph in Pretoria will require more than just tactical discipline on the pitch; emotional and vocal backing from the stands will be equally crucial.
“This is not just another fixture—it’s a defining moment in Malawi’s football resurgence,” Haiya said. “With a one-goal advantage, the psychological and moral support from the diaspora could make all the difference.”
“We’ve won the first half. Now we prepare to go and finish the job in South Africa,” he added. “There’s no pressure on us—they’re the ones under pressure. Beating South Africa is motivation enough for our players. We just urge Malawians based in South Africa to come out in full force and support the team on May 11 in Pretoria.”
The victory marked Malawi’s first regulation-time win over South Africa since 2001 when Patrick Mabedi scored the lone goal in a Cosafa Cup quarterfinal at Kamuzu Stadium. Since then, Bafana Bafana have dominated the fixture, winning seven of the last ten meetings. However, the Flames have twice triumphed in penalty shootouts—in 2015 and 2023—during Cosafa Cup contests.
Haiya praised Head Coach Kalisto Pasuwa and his technical panel for their tactical ingenuity in guiding the Flames to the breakthrough victory.
“First of all, we must commend the players and coaches for the win. It took incredible fighting spirit and tactical awareness,” Haiya said. “Many doubted us before the game, thinking South Africa would win easily, but the players rose to the occasion.”
“Tactically, our coaches did very well. South Africa seemed content with a draw, but our technical panel made key changes, including introducing striker Olson Kanjira to add attacking firepower. It paid off. Kalisto Pasuwa is a true tactician—congratulations to him and the entire technical team.”
Haiya also lauded the fans who turned out in large numbers at Bingu National Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere that spurred the team to victory.
Soon after the game, the FA President left the Corporate Box to personally applaud the supporters for their unwavering backing, acknowledging how their spirited presence pushed the players to secure the memorable win.
“The turnout has been impressive,” he remarked. “This is part of our agenda to transform the game. The supporters believe in the team again, and their energy lifts the players. They are an essential part of this journey.”
