Tag Archives: Patrick Mabedi

Long overdue! Malawi FA fires Flames Coach Patrick Mabedi

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s football governing body Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has sacked Flames Coach Patrick Mabedi over the team’s poor performance.

In a press release issued on October 28, 2024, FAM says Mabedi contract termination is with immediate effect.

Reads the statement, “FAM wishes to inform all its stakeholders and the public that it has terminated the contract of the Malawi Senior Men’s National football Team Coach Patrick Mabedi with immediate effect.

“This is in line with resolutions of the FAM Emergency Committee held on 28th October 2024”.

FAM adds, “The decision is based on the recommendations from the Technical Committee following the dismal performance of the Flames and subsequent failure to qualify for the Total Energies AFCON 2025.

“Football Association of Malawi would like to assure all stakeholders that it will ensure seamless continuity in the Flames’ undertakings in the various competitions. FAM will be putting together a temporary technical panel that will lead the team into the next assignments until a substantive replacement is identified”.

Malawi FA observes, “We believe that stakeholders and the public will keep on rallying behind the Flames and continue to support our beloved National Team.

“Football Association of Malawi is grateful for the contribution made by Coach Mabedi during the time he served as Flames’ Coach and wishes the tactician all the best in his future endeavors”.

FAM is yet to appoint an interim coach for the Flames.

Of pressure mounting on coach Patrick Mabedi over Malawi’s Flames poor show

By Burnett Munthali

Malawi National Football Team coach Patrick Mabedi is currently under intense scrutiny following a series of disappointing performances in various competitions.

As the pressure mounts from fans, analysts, and football authorities alike, it is essential to examine the factors contributing to this situation and the implications for both Mabedi and the team moving forward.

The Malawi national team, commonly known as the Flames, has struggled to make a significant impact in recent matches.

A combination of lackluster results in international friendlies, World Cup qualifiers, and regional competitions has left fans disillusioned.

The team’s inability to secure victories, particularly against lower-ranked opponents, has intensified calls for change within the coaching staff.

Expectations for the Flames have been rising steadily, fueled by a growing football culture and investment in the sport within the country.

The performance of the national team is not just about results; it represents national pride and aspirations for success on a continental and global stage.

Given this backdrop, the current trajectory under Mabedi has led to frustration among supporters who are yearning for competitive play and tangible achievements.

Critics have pointed to tactical inconsistencies as a major issue.

Mabedi’s game plans have come under fire for lacking clarity and effectiveness.

Key players have struggled to adapt to his strategies, resulting in poor coordination and execution on the pitch.

The inability to develop a cohesive playing style has left the team vulnerable against opponents, raising concerns about Mabedi’s coaching philosophy and adaptability.

Beyond performance-related pressures, Mabedi is also navigating external influences from football stakeholders, including the Football Association of Malawi (FAM), fans, and former players.

The voices calling for his dismissal are growing louder, especially as the Flames prepare for crucial fixtures ahead.

The potential fallout from continued poor performances could result in significant consequences for Mabedi’s tenure, as the footballing community may demand accountability for what many perceive as a failure to capitalize on the team’s potential.

The immediate future for Mabedi and the Flames hinges on upcoming matches that could define the trajectory of his coaching career.

The need for decisive results is critical—not just for the coach’s survival but also for the morale of the team and the hopes of the nation.

The coach will need to reassess his strategies, foster better communication with his players, and instill a sense of urgency and belief in the squad.

Moreover, Mabedi must find ways to harness the talent available in the squad, ensuring that players feel empowered to perform at their best.

Implementing a more flexible tactical approach that can adapt to different opponents will be vital in regaining the trust of fans and stakeholders.

In conclusion, Patrick Mabedi is at a crossroads as the coach of the Malawi National Football Team.

The pressure from all sides is palpable, stemming from a combination of poor performances, high expectations, and tactical challenges.

As the Flames prepare for future competitions, it remains to be seen whether Mabedi can turn the tide and restore faith in the team.

Success will require not only a change in results but also a renewed sense of purpose and direction that resonates with players and fans alike.

Malawi coach Patrick Mabedi drops Gaba again in Flames squad

By Petro Mkandawire

BLANTYRE-(MANA)-Flames head coach, Patrick Mabedi on Friday named 28 players, a squad for 2026 African Cup of Nation (A FCON) qualifiers against Burundi and Burkina Faso on September 5 and 10, 2024.

Innocent Nyasulu, George Chikooka, Brighton Munthali, Mark Lameck, Nickson Mwase, Maxwell Papillon, Stanley Sanudi, Lawrence Chaziya, Nickson Nyasulu, Precious Sambani, Denis Chembezi, Llyod Aaron, Wongani Lungu, Wisdom Mpinganjira, Chimwemwe Idana, Uchizi Vunga, Patrick Macheso, Chikondi Kamanga, Lanjesi Nkhoma, Patrick Mwaungulu, John Banda, Yamikani Chester, Robert Saizi, Zeliat Nkhoma, Gaddie Chirwa, Chawanangwa Kaonga and Chifundo Mphasi are the players ready for the AFCOM 2026

Speaking during the briefing at Mpira Stadium in Blantyre, Mabedi said he believes in his competitive squad which will make a significant impact on the continental stage of the 2026 AFCON qualifiers and urged football lovers to accept his decision as he has brought a winning squad.

“Let us all believe in the squad, I am assuring football lovers that these players will succeed and play according to my system,” said Mabedi.

He added that the team needs to do things without other international players like Gabadinho Mhango citing that as a coach he focuses on players that will fit in his system.

In separate interview with sports expert, Frank Kandu said the squad lacks depth “but there isn’t much that the coach can do, adding that it lacks real hitman and stickers considering that every team needs goals”.

“Every team needs goals and more goals but the squad have few strikers. There no real hitman there.  Let’s wait and see if the one entrusted will deliver on the match day”, said Kandu, adding that the team needs a player like Gaba’s calibre.

He said it was unfortunate that the coach did not pick him, adding Gaba is not too old to play.

Coach Mabedi drops Gabadinho Mhango Flames’ World Cup Qualifiers

By Twink Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi football fans were left shocked and disappointed as Moroka Swallows striker Gabadinho Mhango was omitted from the final squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Sao Tome and Equatorial Guinea.

Despite his impressive performances in the DStv Premiership, Mhango has found himself on the sidelines for the crucial matches ahead.

Mhango has been in fine form for Moroka Swallows this season, scoring vital goals for the team and establishing himself as one of the top strikers in the league.

His absence in the Malawi National Team squad has raised eyebrows among fans and football pundits alike, with many questioning the decision made by Flames coach Patrick Mabedi.

Mabedi cited tactical reasons for dropping Mhango from the squad, noting that he wanted to try out different attacking options in the upcoming qualifiers.

While Mhango has been a key player for the Flames in recent years, Mabedi felt that it was time to explore other options and give other players a chance to prove themselves on the international stage.

The decision to drop Mhango has divided opinion among Malawi fans, with some supporting Mabedi’s choice to shake things up in the squad and others expressing their disappointment at the exclusion of a player in such fine form.

Mhango himself has remained silent on the matter, choosing to focus on his club commitments with Moroka Swallows.

Mhango’s omission from the squad has left a void in the Malawi National Team attack, with fans wondering how the Flames will fare without their star striker leading the line.

However, Mabedi remains confident in the players he has selected for the upcoming qualifiers, expressing his belief that the team has what it takes to secure positive results in the matches against Sao Tome and Equatorial Guinea.

Despite the controversy surrounding Mhango’s exclusion, Mabedi is standing by his decision and is hopeful that the team will deliver strong performances in the World Cup qualifiers.

The Flames have been working hard in training to prepare for the matches ahead, with Mabedi emphasizing the importance of teamwork and unity in the squad.

Malawi Flames head coach Mabedi releases local squad for four-nation tourney pres

By Twink Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-As Malawi prepares to host Kenya, Zambia, and Zimbabwe for a four-nation tournament later this month, head coach Patrick Mabedi has named a 27-man provisional squad of local-based players.

The squad will go into camp on Sunday in preparation for the highly anticipated competition.

The squad comprises a mix of experienced players and rising talents from top local clubs such as Nyasa Big Bullets, Silver Strikers, and Wanderers.

Mabedi is confident that this group of players has what it takes to compete against some of the best teams in the region.

In the goalkeeping department, Mabedi has selected three talented shot-stoppers – Innocent Nyasulu from Bullets, Austin Chirambo from Bullets Reserve, and George Chikooka from Silver Strikers. These goalkeepers will be key in ensuring a solid defensive line during the tournament.

The defense is made up of solid defenders such as Mark Lameck from Silver Strikers, Dannie Chimbalanga from MAFCO, and Chimwemwe Nkhoma from Wanderers. The players will be tasked with keeping the opposition at bay and providing cover for the goalkeepers.

In midfield, the squad boasts talented players like Chrispin Mapemba from Bullets Reserve, Wisdom Mpinganjira from Wanderers, and Francisco Madinga from Wanderers.

These midfielders will be crucial in dictating the pace of the game and creating scoring opportunities for the team.

Up front, the striking department includes players like Olson Kanjira from Kamuzu Barracks, Christopher Kumwembe from Wanderers, and Ephraim Kondowe from Bullets.

The strikers will be expected to lead the attack and find the back of the net to secure victories for the team.

With a strong squad in place, Malawi will be looking to make a strong impression in the four-nations tournament.

The competition will provide an excellent opportunity for the local players to showcase their talent on a regional stage and potentially catch the eye of international scouts.

The tournament will be held at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe during the forthcoming FIFA window, providing a platform for the players to test themselves against tough opposition.

The matches against Kenya, Zambia, and Zimbabwe will be a good gauge of the team’s progress and readiness for future competitions.

Coach Mabedi is optimistic about the team’s chances and is confident that the players will give their all to represent their country with pride.

The preparations for the tournament are well underway, and the squad is determined to put on a strong showing for their fans and the nation.

As the players go into camp to fine-tune their skills and tactics, the excitement and anticipation for the tournament continue to build.

The four-nations competition promises to be a thrilling display of footballing talent from the region, and Malawi is eager to make its mark on the continental stage.

With a blend of experience and youth in the squad, Malawi has a good balance of talent and potential.

The players are ready to give their all and leave everything on the field as they aim to bring glory to their country in the upcoming tournament.

As the countdown to the four-nations tournament begins, all eyes will be on the Malawian team to see how they fare against their formidable opponents.

With the support of their fans and the belief in their abilities, the local squad is ready to take on the challenge and make their mark in regional football.

Flames coach Mabedi dismisses concerns about Gabadinho’ absence

……Malawi 0-1 Tunisia

By Romeo Umali

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi National Football Team, the Flames Coach, Patrick Mabedi has squashed assertions that the team is struggling to score upfront due to the absence of key players like Morokan Swallows forward Frank ‘Gabadinho’ Mhango.

He spoke this after Malawi went down 1-0 to Tunisia in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Tuesday.

“Football is a game of 11 players. The absence of one player is not an excuse. We have played eight games without the mentioned players, performing well. It’s essential to groom replacements for the future,” said Mabedi.

He expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, emphasizing the valuable experience gained for future endeavors.

Mabedi refused to accommodate Mhango after he reportedly missed his flight to Liberia, describing the incident as a sign of indiscipline.

Tunisia’s coach, Jalal Qaderi, commended the resilience of the Malawi Team, acknowledging their offensive prowess while attributing their victory to tactical superiority and experience.

“We knew it was a challenging match, respecting the offensive Malawi Team. However, our tactical prowess and concentration prevailed. Experience played a crucial role in securing the win,” stated Qaderi.

It was a match in which the visitors enjoyed much ball possession in the entire regulation time. But the resilient youthful Flames gave them a tough ride only to concede a goal in the 87th minute.

It was from a penalty kick after Flames defender, Lawrence Chaziya unleashed a dangerously tackle on the advancing Tunisia’s striker, Sayfallah Ltaief.

Youssef Msakni sent Malawi’s goalkeeper, Brighton Munthali in the wrong direction. It was too late for the hosts to equalize.

However, Sports Journalist Edwin Mbewe stresses the need for Mabedi to reconsider team selection, especially in the attacking department.

“The way we played today indicated a lack of a killer punch upfront. The current attackers have much to learn,” observes Mbewe.

The results mean Malawi has maintained its position 3 with 3 points in Group H while Tunisia leads with 6 points and is being followed closely by Equatorial Guinea. They have the same points but with a goal difference.

On June 3, 2024, Malawi shall take on Sao Tome and Principe in the ongoing qualifiers.

Source: The Radar

Flames Coach Mabedi refuses Gaba to join squad over indiscipline

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s Flames coach Patrick Mabedi has refused to allow South Africa-based forward Frank Gabadinho Mhango to join the squad in Liberia ahead of Friday’s 2026 World Cup Qualifier, citing disciplinary reasons.

This comes after the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) made fresh arrangements for the player to travel to Monrovia today after missing his initial flight to Blantyre from Johannesburg on Sunday.

FAM president Walter Nyamilandu told The Nation online that the coach’s decision was “purely on disciplinary grounds and that the door has not been closed on Gaba”.

Mhango said he is ready to travel to Liberia if fresh arrangements are made ahead of this Friday’s 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier.

Mhango was supposed to meet his teammates in Addis Ababa but missed a flight from Or Tambo, South Africa to Ethiopia on Sunday.

The Moroka Swallows striker hinted that flights from South Africa to Liberia are available every day.

“Indeed, I missed the flight on Sunday. At first, I thought my flight was at 1 pm but after I arrived at the Airport, I was told the flight was at 11 am,” Mhango said.

According to Mhango, a return ticket from Johannesburg to Liberia costs about R40,000 (about MK4 million).

Goalkeeper Brighton Munthali joined the rest of the team at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, en route to Liberia.

Meanwhile, the Flames are on their way to Liberia for this Friday’s match.

The team left Bole International Airport on Tuesday morning, November 14, 2023.

The Flames will host Tunisia at Bingu National Stadium on Tuesday.

Malawi FA appoints Patrick Mabedi as Flames Head Coach

Mabedi is now the Flames’ head coach

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Football Association of Malawi (Fam) has fully appointed Patrick Mabedi as Malawi National Football Team coach on a two-year contract.

Fam president, Walter Nyamilandu, has confirmed the development to Times360.

Nyamilandu was however quicker saying details will be announced in a statement.

He, however, said Mabedi will be given freedom to choose his backroom staff, with the approval of the Executive Committee.

Mabedi was the Flames’ caretaker coach for a period of three months after the association decided against renewing Mario Marinica’s contract due to the poor performance of the team.

He led the Flames to the semifinals of the Cosafa Cup for the first time in 20 years after winning all three matches in the group stage.

In the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, the Flames drew 0-0 against Ethiopia at Zimpeto National Stadium in Maputo, Mozambique before a 2-2 stalemate against Guinea at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.

FAM told to offer Mabedi expatriate benefits for Flames’ good results

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The National Football Coaches Association (NFCA) has asked Football Association of Malawi (FAM) to provide newly appointed Flames caretaker coach Patrick Mabedi with all the benefits that previous expatriate coaches were getting.

On Saturday, April 22, FAM appointed Mabedi to lead the Flames up to September 2023 in readiness for COSAFA games in South Africa next month and two AFCON Qualifying matches of Guinea and Ethiopia to be played in June and September.

NFCA General Secretary, Davie Mpima Snr told local radio that Mabedi needs to be given enough support in order to produce good results.

Mpima observes that Mabedi deserves to be given a good salary, a house, free electricity and water, police dogs, airtime, a car and secure friendly games for the team.

He also emphasized on the need for FAM to give Mabedi enough time to identify some local players who will make a team to be used for the next four years starting with COSAFA games next month.

Echoing on the same, Sports Analyst, Mac Collings Chivunde said time has come for FAM to start believing in local coached as expatriates have showcased poor results in recent years.

FAM appoints Patrick Mabedi as Flames caretaker coach

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has appointed Flames Assistant coach and Under 20 Head Coach Patrick Mabedi as Flames Caretaker coach until September 2023.

The FAM Executive Committee first meeting  of 2023 currently underway in Salima has resolved to engage Mabedi in acting capacity to fill the void following the departure of Mario Marinica whose contract was not renewed.

Mabedi will see the team through the two remaining 2023 AFCON Qualifiers against Ethiopia in June and Guinea in September as well as the COSAFA Cup in May.

In the meantime, FAM will immediately embark on the process to recruit a full time Flames Head coach.

FAM has settled for Mabedi to ensure continuity as he has been in the National teams structures for close to four years.

He has served as Flames assistant coach since May last year and has  been in charge of the Under 20 since 2020. He was also an Assistant Coach to Eddington Ng’onamo in 2013.

The former Flames captain is one of the few local coaches with top international exposure having coached in South Africa including a stint with Primer Soccer League giants Kazier Chiefs.

Source: FAM