Malawi coach Patrick Mabedi admitted his side did not deserve to beat Burundi in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opener at Bingu National Stadium on Thursday.

The Flames put up a valiant fightback in the Group L match in Blantyre, but Mokono Eldhino’s late goal won the victory for the visitors. Malawi played well in the first half of the game, creating early opportunities but missing the mark.

“We had a bad day in office. We need to move on, no need to complain,” Mabedi told reporters after the game.

“We played Gomezgani Chirwa at the left though he plays as right back at his club because we thought he could deliver since he played the same position for Malawi last time at AFCON.”

Burundi took an early lead in the first half through an own goal by Malawi’s Chimwemwe Idana, but Chawanangwa Kaonga quickly leveled the scores with a stunning free kick.

The visitors regained the lead when Jean Girumugisha tapped home a beautiful curved cross. In the second half, coach Mabedi made a bold move by substituting Yamikani Chester with Patrick Mwaungulu and Robert Saizi, despite disapproval from the crowd.

However, the change failed to yield the desired result.In the 86th minute, a costly mistake by Gomezgani Chirwa and goalkeeper Chikooka allowed Burundi to score the winner, sealing the match 3-2.

The Flames will look to bounce back in their next match against Burkina Faso, while Burundi will face Senegal on Monday, using the Bingu National Stadium as their home ground.