….Zambia 9(0)-(0)8 Malawi
By Edwin Mbewe
FRANCISTOWN-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi National Football Team, the Flames, suffered a heartbreaking 9-8 defeat on post-match penalties to Zambia’s youthful Chipolopolo side after a tense goalless draw in regulation time at the Four Nations Tournament in Francistown, Botswana on Saturday, March 27, 2026.
Despite a spirited defensive display, Malawi struggled to impose themselves offensively, particularly in the first half where Kalisto Pasuwa’s charges failed to register a single shot on target.
HIn contrast, Zambia managed two attempts on goal, highlighting their slightly sharper attacking edge in an otherwise tightly contested encounter.
The second half saw an improved performance from the Flames, who looked more composed and adventurous going forward through Babatunde Adepoju who replaced the injured stand-in Captain Richard Mbulu in the very early minutes of the first stanza.
But they were still unable to break the deadlock against a disciplined Zambian backline.
With neither side able to find the breakthrough, the match proceeded straight to penalties.
What followed was a dramatic and nerve-wracking shootout, with both teams displaying remarkable composure from the spot.
However, it was Zambia who ultimately held their nerve to clinch a 9-8 victory, sending them through to the final.
Ephraim Kondowe and Wisdom Mpinganjira failed to convert their kicks.
In the tournament’s other semifinal fixture, hosts Botswana are set to face Zimbabwe’s Brave Warriors.
The winner of that encounter will meet Zambia in the final, while the loser will take on Malawi in the third-place playoff.
Head Coach Kalisto Pasuwa fielded in a very strong squad as William Thole guarded the sticks, with McDonald Lameck, Charles Petro, Nickson Nyasulu and Gomezgani Chirwa operating in the defense.
Mwisho Mhango, Lloyd Aaron, Richard Mbulu,Chawanangwa Kaonga, Robert Saizi and Emmanuel Nyirenda were also entrusted by the Zimbabwean tactician.
The Flames will now shift focus to the classification match, aiming to salvage pride and secure a podium finish after a hard-fought but ultimately disappointing semifinal exit.