Mayele Says National Team Call-up is “Dream Come True”

Flames striker Mayele Malango has described his call-up to the Malawi National Team as a dream come true, saying he has been longing for this opportunity for a long time.

Flames Head Coach Kalisto Pasuwa included the striker in his 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers against Namibia away and Liberia at home.

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The Monterey Bay FC forward, who fled the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with his family in 1998 due to war, described the moment as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.

Speaking in an interview with the FA’s media, Mayele said he is thrilled to earn the call-up and feels ready for the challenge.

“I feel happy and honored to be here,” said Malango. “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. It’s something good, you know. I like the training sessions so far – the players and the coaching staff are good people. So far, so good.”

Mayele, who can operate across the attacking line, took to social media after receiving his call-up to express his gratitude.

“Representing Malawi on the international stage has always been a dream of mine, and I’m deeply honored to be recognized by the Football Association of Malawi (FAM),” Malango wrote on his Facebook page.

“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.”

Though relatively unknown in African football circles, Malango’s story mirrors that of his more renowned compatriot, Fiston Mayele. Both were born in Kinshasa before carving out football careers abroad, with Malango finding his home and identity in Malawi after his family’s journey as refugees.