Pasuwa leads race to take over Malawi's national team as head coach

Pasuwa Kalitso. (Photo via FAM media)

Zimbabwean coach Kalisto Pasuwa is in line to be appointed as the new head coach of Malawi’s national team, BolaNews has learned.

This follows the Malawi Football Association’s (FAM) technical subcommittee meeting, which took place over the weekend in Mangochi, where members recommended Pasuwa to take charge of the Flames.

However, the recommendation is not enough, as the association’s executive committee has the final say.

A source within FAM told BolaNews that the final meeting will take place this weekend. “I can confirm with you that FAM’s executive committee meeting on Saturday in Mzuzu [the northern region of Malawi] will review the recommendation and make a decision. Subcommittees are for recommendations and guidance,” said the source.

Pasuwa is the favorite to take over after he recorded positive results as interim coach last year. He was given the mantle to lead the team against Burundi and Burkina Faso in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. He managed to collect four points after defeating Burkina Faso 3-0 in Malawi and drawing 0-0 away to Burundi.

Malawi fired its head coach, Patrick Mabed, in October last year following a poor string of results. They are now looking to conclude the selection process for his replacement.

The Flames’ next match will be against Namibia in the March 2026 World Cup qualifier. This will be followed by the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.