Burundi clinched a dramatic 3-2 win over Malawi in their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Bingu National Stadium on Thursday, thanks to Mokono Eldhino’s decisive late goal.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams. Malawi started with high energy, creating several early opportunities but failing to convert. Their challenge intensified when Chimwemwe Idana’s own goal in the 22nd minute handed Burundi an unexpected lead.
Malawi responded quickly, with Chawanangwa Kaonga leveling the score just nine minutes later with a precise free-kick. Despite the setback, Burundi regained the advantage before halftime when Jean Girumugisha scored from close range, giving the visitors a 2-1 lead.
In the second half, Malawi’s relentless pressure bore fruit as Lanjesi Nkhoma equalized in the 75th minute with a powerful header from Kaonga’s cross, making it 2-2 and intensifying the contest.
With the momentum seemingly in Malawi’s favor, it was Burundi who had the final say. In the 87th minute, Eldhino unleashed a stunning shot from outside the box, beating Malawi’s goalkeeper George Chokooka and sealing the victory for Burundi.
The result significantly boosts Burundi’s chances of advancing in the qualifiers, while Malawi, under coach Patrick Mabedi, faces an uphill battle to regroup and improve their standing in the group.