FAM president Walter Nyamilandu says the presence of President Lazarus Chakwera and Vice-President Saulos Chilima at this afternoon’s Flames’ opening 2023 Afcon qualifier against Ethiopia will inspire the Malawi National Football Team.

Chakwera and Chilima will be among thousands that will throng Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe to cheer the Flames as they kick-start their campaign for successive continental showpiece qualification campaign.

To cheer the team: Chakwera

Said Nyamilandu: “Their presence is a strong message of intent that Malawi means serious business on Sunday [today].

“It’s a huge morale booster for the Flames to know that the number citizen, who is the Commander in Chief, will be at the battlefield on Sunday to personally rally the team.

“This will make the players die for their country and go the extra mile to conquer Ethiopia.

“Their presence underscores that government is fully behind the Flames in a bid to qualify for 2023 Afcon.”

Nyamilandu said FAM and the entire football fraternity highly appreciates the love and sacrifice the President and Vice-President have shown towards the cause.

He added: “They have just ignited the fire.”

Minister of Youth and Sports Richard Chimwendo Banda said the presidency’s presence speaks volumes of its support to the national team.

“That they have taken time off their busy schedule to join football-loving Malawians in cheering their team demonstrates their passion for the Flames.

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