Potential candidates to replace Mabedi with the Flames

John Maduka © Getty Images

Former Kaizer Chiefs coach and captain Patrick Mabedi was sacked as Malawi head coach on Tuesday.

Mabedi’s departure from the Flames midway through his two-year contract came after five straight losses.

The former Black Leopards assistant coach’s misfortune could open a window of opportunity for some big names.

After all, the Flames will travel to Burundi on November 15 for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The Malawi Football Association has since hinted that it would hire an interim coach while it waits for a permanent one.

SuperSport.com has scanned the Malawi football community for possible candidates who could fill the void left by Mabedi’s sacking.

THABO SENONG

Senong arrived in Malawi two weeks ago to take up a lucrative position as a FIFA talent development coach at the Luwinga Inclusive Academy.

The Malawi FA may be tempted to temporarily entrust the Flames to the capable hands of the former Sekhukune United assistant coach.

Senong is no stranger to senior national team football. He was responsible for Lesotho and was part of the Bafana Bafana organisation.

KALISTO PASUWA

The Zimbabwean has always been linked with the Flames. However, the man who was once tipped as a potential Chiefs prospect insists he is happy with his current job at FCB Nyasa Big Bullets.

Pasuwa takes charge of Malawian football after winning five consecutive TNM Super League titles.

PETER MPONDA

The former Leopards coach and captain has been a revelation this season in the TNM Super League. He has taken the Silver Strikers to the top of the league, where they are seven points adrift with six games remaining.

JOHN MADUKA

The PSL legend leads Royal AM and continues to shine. The former Bloemfontein Celtic captain has not been involved in football in his homeland since 2005, when he left the Flames.

Maduka is a loyal servant, so the chances of him leaving Royal AM are slim. However, in football, never say never.

MACDONALD MTETEMERA

The former Flames defender is unknown outside Malawi’s football borders. However, he came into his own last season with lowly Chitipa United, who finished in the top four.

Mthethemera did not repeat his heroics at new club Crerk Sporting Club, where he was suspended due to poor results.

FAM may find this a more convenient temporary option.