Mbulu returns as Flames target second win

The Flames have departed for Angola, where they will play their second Group B match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola at Estádio 11 de Novembro on Tuesday, 6 October 2026.

A victory over Angola would see the Flames reclaim the top spot, while a defeat would drop them to third place. Angola, who are currently third with one point, would move up to second with four points if they win.

Egypt currently lead Group B with four points, having beaten South Sudan 5-0 and drawn 0-0 with Angola. The Flames sit second with three points from their 2-1 home win over South Sudan.

Head coach Kalisto Pasuwa has travelled with a 24-member squad for the first-leg encounter.

The squad includes three new players: Ekhaya FC goalkeeper Amos Sande, Silver Strikers midfielder Robert Saizi, and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets midfielder Chawanangwa Gumbo.

The trio was not part of the team that defeated South Sudan 2-1 in Malawi’s opening Group B match at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on 25 September. The trio has replaced players, who have returned to the Malawi Under 23 national team.

Mozambique-based striker Richard Mbulu has also joined the squad and could be available for selection against Angola.