Malango makes brief but promising cameo, earns praise from Coach Pasuwa

When the team sheet was released, many fans were disappointed to see Mayele Malango not given a starting opportunity, especially considering this was essentially a dead rubber match following Malawi’s poor start to the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers that has left them out of contention for the finals.

As usual, veterans Richard Mbulu and Gabadinho Mhango started as the two strikers. Both players found the net as Malawi secured a 2-1 victory over Namibia. Mbulu opened the scoring early after capitalizing on a defensive error, before Mhango produced a moment of magic with a spectacular 43-yard strike that beat the goalkeeper.

Head coach Kalisto Pasuwa introduced the American-based striker in the 86th minute, replacing first-goal scorer Mbulu. Despite limited time on the pitch, Malango showed glimpses of his quality. Using his pace and physicality, he beat a defender before seeing his effort blocked, earning Malawi a corner that the hosts defended well in Francistown.

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Speaking after the match, Pasuwa was full of praise for the striker, describing him as exactly the type of player the team needs as they prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers.

“He played very well in the minutes that he came in and he could have scored. We need his presence. He is the kind of player we are looking for and we will benefit more from his experience,” Pasuwa said.

Mayele Malango’s path to the Malawi national team is remarkable. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he fled to Malawi due to civil war and spent his formative years at Dzaleka Refugee Camp before eventually moving to America. Despite his Congolese birth, Malango chose to represent Malawi over the DRC.

His eligibility came following Malawi’s legalization of dual citizenship, allowing him to switch his nationality and fulfill his dream of international football.

“It has always been my desire to play for the National Team and give back to Malawian leadership for their kindness,” said Malango, who spent over 10 years at Dzaleka. “I feel happy and honored to be here. It’s a dream come true for me. Every player in the world wants to play for their national team, and I’m very happy to be here.”

The versatile forward, who can operate across the attacking line, took to social media after his call-up to express his deep gratitude:

“This country is more than just a home to me. Malawi gave my family and me a second chance at life after we fled the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1998 due to war. We lost everything we had, but Malawi welcomed us with open arms and gave us the opportunity to rebuild from scratch. That act of kindness and generosity will forever be etched in my heart.

“Now, I get to wear its colors with pride. I’m beyond grateful and excited to represent this great nation. I can’t wait to get started.”

Malawi fans will be hoping to see more of Malango when the team faces Liberia on Monday at Bingu National Stadium, where he could make his home debut in front of Malawian supporters.

The match presents another opportunity for Pasuwa to assess his squad as they begin building toward future competitions, with players like Malango potentially playing key roles in the team’s evolution.