The Malawi national football team, the Flames, have been placed in Group B of the 2025 COSAFA Senior Championship alongside Angola, Namibia and Lesotho following a draw conducted on Wednesday in South Africa ahead of the regional showpiece set to take place from June 4 to 15.

Reacting to the draw, Flames assistant coach Peter Mponda described it as fair and promising.

"It’s a balanced group. We respect all our opponents, but we are confident and will prepare thoroughly to compete," said Mponda.

Sports analyst Parley Chinyama echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of good preparation.

"This is a manageable group for the Flames. Angola might be the toughest opponent, but with proper planning and team discipline, we (Malawi) can advance," Chinyama said.

The tournament will see the top team from each of the four groups progress to the semifinals of the showpeice to be staged in Mangaung, South Africa.

The Flames are making a return to the COSAFA Senior Championship after missing out in 2024. Football Association of Malawi withdrew the Flames from the previous tournament due to national mourning following the death of Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima in June last year.