BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s national football team, the Flames, is buzzing with excitement following the inclusion of US-based forward Mayele Malango in the squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Namibia and Liberia.
Malango, who currently plays for Monterey Bay FC in the US Championship, expressed his enthusiasm about representing Malawi, saying, “Representing Malawi is an incredible honor and a dream come true for me.
“This country is more than just a home to me. Malawi gave my family and me a second chance at life after we fled the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1998 due to war.”
The 28-year-old forward’s journey to the Flames squad is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Kinshasa, Zaire, Malango and his family were forced to flee to Malawi during a civil war, where they spent 10 years as refugees at Dzaleka Refugee Camp.
This experience has instilled in him a deep sense of gratitude towards Malawi, which he now proudly represents on the football pitch.
Malango’s impressive form in the US Championship, where he has played 1,286 minutes for Monterey Bay FC this season, scoring four goals and providing two assists, earned him a call-up to the national team.
A Player with a rich history
Malango’s football career spans several leagues and teams in the United States.
He has played for USL League Two side Boston Bolts, USL League One side New England Revolution II, National Independent Soccer Association side New Amsterdam FC, and Albion San Diego.
Before joining Monterey Bay FC, he played for Chattanooga Red Wolves SC in USL League One, where he recorded six goals in the past campaign.
His dynamic playing style and attacking flair make him an exciting addition to the Flames squad.
Opting for Malawi over DR Congo
Malango’s decision to represent Malawi over his birth country, the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a testament to the impact Malawi has had on his life.
Growing up in Malawi and being given a second chance at life has clearly influenced his choice.
“Malawi welcomed us with open arms and gave us the opportunity to rebuild from scratch. That act of kindness and generosity will forever be etched in my heart,” Malango said, highlighting the deep connection he feels towards the country.
The Road ahead
With Malango on board, the Flames are looking to make a strong impression in the World Cup Qualifiers. The team, led by coach Kalisto Pasuwa, has a 26-man squad comprising 16 foreign-based players.
Their first match against Namibia will be a tough test, with the Brave Warriors having won their last three international matches.
The return leg against Liberia will be a different challenge, with the Lone Stars having lost their last three matches.
Malawi’s chances in the qualifiers are uncertain, but with players like Malango, the team is poised to put up a good fight.
As the Flames prepare to take on Namibia on September 5 in Francistown, Botswana, and host Liberia on September 8 at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, Malawi, fans are eagerly anticipating the team’s performance.
With Malango’s talent and dedication, Malawi’s football fans have reason to be optimistic about the team’s prospects in the World Cup Qualifiers.
The Flames squad
The 26-man squad includes goalkeepers William Thole and George Chikooka, defenders Nickson Nyasulu, Dennis Chembezi, Maxwell Paipi, Emmanuel Nyirenda, Charles Petro, Gomegzani Chirwa, Mcdonald Lameck, Alick Lungu, and Washali Jaziya.
The midfielders include Yankho Singo, Blessings Singini, Lloyd Aaron, and Robert Saizi. Forwards Frank Gabadinho Mhango, Richard Mbulu, Chawanangwa Kaonga, and Henry Kumwenda round out the squad.
With Malango’s inclusion, the Flames are set to bring a new level of excitement and energy to the pitch.
As the team prepares to face off against Namibia and Liberia, fans are hopeful that Malango’s talent will make a significant impact on the team’s performance.
