Malawi Under-20 National Football Team reached the Semi-finals of the Africa Union Sports Council Region 5 Games after beating hosts Namibia 2-0.
Malawi, who needed a point to ensure their progress, left it late to score the two goals in the last 10 miniutes with Lameck Mithi and Clifford Chisale goals.
They started the campaign with a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe on July 4 but failed to seal the last four spot with a game to spare when Angola equalised just before the half time recess in their second match.
But they braved the nerves in their last group match to beat Namibia with Mithi named Player of the match.
Football Association of Malawi President Fleetwood Haiya commended the Junior Flames for breaking the jinx in 14 years.
“Junior Flames Break the Record!
Said a message on Haiya’s Facebook Page: “Congratulations to the Junior Flames for making history by qualifying for the semifinals for the first time in 14 years, following a remarkable 2–0 victory over hosts Namibia.
“It is particularly commendable that in all three matches played, Malawian players have proudly clinched the Man of the Match award, a true testament to their talent, discipline, and rising confidence.
“The future of Malawian football is indeed bright as we continue our collective journey to transform the game from the grassroots up. Well done, Flames U20.”
