BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a surprising twist in Malawi’s football circles, two Super League giants, Masters FC and Silver Strikers, have blocked their head coaches from joining the Malawi national football team, the Flames, for international preparations.
Masters FC coach Peter Mponda and Silver Strikers coach Peter Mgangira were expected to report for national team duties on Monday as part of the technical panel preparing the Flames for the upcoming Four-Nations tournament.
The regional tournament is scheduled to take place in Botswana later this month, bringing together national teams in a competitive international friendly event aimed at sharpening squads ahead of AFCON competitions.
However, when the Flames technical staff gathered to begin training sessions, both Mponda and Mgangira were noticeably absent from the touchline.
Officials from the two clubs confirmed that the decision to hold back the coaches was deliberate and meant to ensure the teams maintain full focus on domestic assignments.
Masters FC leadership, represented by club official Christopher Njeula, explained that the club wants its technical bench fully committed as preparations intensify for the new football season.
Silver Strikers also echoed similar sentiments through their official Patrick Chimimba, stating that the team needs the full attention of its coaching staff ahead of the league kickoff.
With the FDH Premiership League set to begin on April 25,2026, both clubs believe releasing their coaches at this crucial stage could disrupt tactical preparations and squad readiness.
The decision has forced adjustments within the national team’s technical setup as the Flames continue preparations for the international assignment.
Head coach Kalisto Pasuwa is now expected to lead the training sessions with support from Pritchard Mwansa, who has stepped in to assist with the preparations.
The Flames are expected to travel to Botswana for the Four-Nations tournament, where the team hopes to test combinations and build momentum.
Sports analyst Williams Chande described the decision as disappointing, arguing that the national team should always take priority.
Chande said denying the two experienced coaches a chance to serve the Flames could hinder their professional growth and limit the national team’s technical depth.
He further noted that Mponda and Mgangira possess valuable experience that could benefit the national team setup, especially considering they are among the coaches who could lead the Flames in the future.
