The Flames of Malawi is leading group B of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON opening qualification match with a 2-1 victory over South Sudan in Malawi.

In their group B, Malawi was the only side with a win, as Egypt played out a goalless draw against Angola on the same day.

Malawi will now visit Angola in Luanda on October 6, while Egypt will travel to South Sudan on the same day.

Malawi coach Kalisto Pasuwa said it feels good to start with a win ahead of the crucial match against Angola.

“Winning at home is a motivation to the boys; it will give them encouragement ahead of our next match,” said Pasuwa.

Malawi scored first through Babatunde Adepoju in the 19th minute to give the hosts a lead at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.

46th minutes later, Dhata Joseph leveled matters for the visitors. Malawi, who dominated possession, restored their lead in the 65th minute through a header by Lloyd Njaliwa.

Malawi had numerous opportunities to score more goals, but Sudan’s goalkeeper denied them.

Pasuwa said though his charges were not at their best performance, he is happy to have recorded a win at home.

“We started well, but soon after scoring we dropped. We struggled at the midfield as holding midfielders were sitting at our half, allowing the opposition to play in our half.

“But we will go back and work on our mistakes ahead of the next match. All in all we are happy that we have started with a win,” said the Zimbabwe gaffer.

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