Flames head coach Kalisto Pasuwa says his side is ready for Friday’s 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying encounter against Egypt after completing their preparations in Cairo.
Pasuwa expressed satisfaction with the intensity displayed by his players during training, saying the team is determined to secure a positive result against the Pharaohs.
“The intensity was high, and the players are eager to go. According to the training sessions we have had, the boys are looking good,” said Pasuwa.
The coach also played down the impact of Egypt’s change of head coach, saying Malawi’s focus remains on the players they will face rather than changes to the opposition’s technical panel.
“It’s not all about coaches. A team can change coaches, but it’s the same players who are still there. The DNA remains the same. It’s all up to us and our mentality to be ready for whatever comes,” he said.
Pasuwa further stressed the importance of making a strong start, recalling how Malawi struggled in their previous encounter against Angola after arriving late and having limited time to warm up. He said the Flames must avoid a similar situation against Egypt by settling into the game quickly and maintaining their concentration from the opening whistle.
The coach also acknowledged the challenge of playing in Cairo, where he expects a packed stadium, but challenged his players to remain focused and take control of the game. Meanwhile, the Flames have an almost complete squad in camp, with 23 of the 24 called-up players available.
United States-based Adiel Kaduya is the only player yet to join the team. Malawi will face Egypt on Friday, 13 November, in Cairo before hosting the Pharaohs in the return fixture at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on 17 November.
