Malawi raises hopes of progress at Afcon after huge win over Zimbabwe

By Joseph Dumbula. The Malawi national football team came from behind to beat Zimbabwe 2-1, a result that has revived the Flames chances of progressing at the Africa Cup of nations from Group B underway in Cameroon. Forward Gabadihno Mhango scored twice to ensure the Warriors opener through Ishmael Wadu does not stand. Wadi put Zimbabwe ahead in the first half on 38 minutes, but Mhango levelled just before the break. The Orlando Pirates star who was out in the first match the Flames lost to Guniea due to Covid19, was then on target in the second half after 58 minutes as he took advantage of some hesitant defending and supplied a poacher's finish. The result now means the Flames have three points from two games and are third in the group behind Senegal and Guinea, who each have four. The hard-fought win for Malawi means that Zimbabwe has now lost both of their matches to date. The Flames know victory over pre-tournament favourites Senegal will see them through to the knock-out stage, while a point could be enough to progress as one of four best third-placed sides. Malawi, whose only other win at the Cup of Nations was a 3-0 success over Algeria in 2010, play Senegal in their final Group B game at the same venue on Tuesday, while Zimbabwe will meet Guinea in Yaounde. The win sparkled wild celebrations across the major streets of Malawi as people could not hold their celebrations. Some of the people that Pan African Visions spoke to said it was long overdue for the Flames to even earn a win at that big stage. The team made about three changes as the entire squad was now available for selection after Covid19 kept over ten of the players out due to Covid19.