Flames faced Burkina Faso’s Stallions with pride at stake as they aimed for their first win in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers.
Although the match was a dead rubber following Senegal and Burkina Faso’s qualification from the group, victory was inevitable to give the home fans something to smile about.
On the other hand, to give salvage some pride and prove critics wrong that they were just journeymen.
This was done in spectacular fashion as the rejected stone South Africa-based Gabadinho Mhango proved his pedigree as a lethal striker when he set the Flames on the path to victory with a trademark long range scorcher in the 28th minute.
This goal raised questions about the former Flames coach Patrick Mabedi controversial snubbing as he justified interim coach Kallisto Pasuwa’s faith in the Malumo Gallants striker.
Another striker Richard Mbulu based in Mozambique, who was also overlooked by former coach , cushioned the lead in the 57th minute.
Before the euphoria had died, Bullets midfielder Lloyid Aaron added the icing on the cake with the third goal in the 61st minute.
Burkina Faso’s puffed and huffed in search of a goal, but the Flames defence of Charles Petro, Nickson Mwase, Alick Lungu and Gomezgani Chirwa.
Mighty Mukuwu Wanderers goalkeeper, who was also sidelined by Mabedi was the toast of the day and put up telling saves to keep the visitors at bay.
Malawi finished the futile campaign with four points tied at four points with Burundi despite tying on goal aggregate as well because Burundi beat Malawi at home.
Senegal, who play Burundi on November 19, have 13 points and could add on their points tally should they win or draw.
