Malawi returns to winning ways, beats Burkina Faso 1-0 at Afcon

Flames defeat Stallions to register first win in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations

John Banda's solitary strike secures three crucial points for Malawi

Malawi's Flames have registered their first win at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso's Stallions at the Bingu National Stadium on Tuesday, January 17, 2023.

The match was a tale of two halves, with Malawi dominating the first half and Burkina Faso coming back stronger in the second half.

Malawi took the lead in the 35th minute through John Banda, who capitalized on a defensive error by Burkina Faso to slot the ball home.

The Flames went into the break with a slender lead, but Burkina Faso came back stronger in the second half and created several chances to equalize.

However, the Malawian defense held firm, and goalkeeper Ernest Kakhobwe made several crucial saves to deny the Stallions.

Malawi's win is a major boost to their hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the tournament.

The Flames are now second in Group B with three points, behind leaders Senegal who have four points.

Burkina Faso, meanwhile, are bottom of the group with no points after two matches.

Malawi will face Senegal in their next match on Friday, January 20, 2023, while Burkina Faso will take on Zimbabwe.