more direct, fast-attacking football. In addition, he dismantled the starting 11 that had clinched the Afcon berth. The inexperienced players brought a positive work ethic and healthy competition in the squad. It became clear that there were no longer invincibles in the team, who displayed remarkable defensive discipline to hold Senegal. Back home, Malawians’ support of the Flames, ranked 129th in the world, grew with each game. Fans filled the streets on 14 January after the 2–1 win over Zimbabwe chanting “Siine koma Gabadinho”, telling those who cared to listen that they cannot be faulted for the overnight celebrations because it was Mhango and his two goals that caused it. The Afcon has helped ignite a spark in Gabadinho Mhango, who has struggled at his club Orlando Pirates but shone in the Afcon for the Flames. “It is history in the making,” Mhango said. “My ambition is to see Malawian players, including myself, playing overseas. At the end of the tournament, I can foresee four or five players playing in Europe. I have been telling my teammates that in every game we have to show a fighting spirit, whether we win or lose, because the whole world is watching. We need to prove that we have talent in Malawi." References 1964 births Living people Romanian footballers Romanian football managers Romanian expatriate football managers FC Steaua București players FC Dinamo București players FC Argeș Pitești managers FC Gloria Buzău managers FC Sportul Studențesc București managers Black Leopards F.C. managers Mario Marinică Malawi national football team managers Association football midfielders