Former Flames keeper dies at 39 after illness
Swini earned his first cap in a 2009 COSAFA Cup loss to Mozambique.
LILONGWE, Malawi— Former Malawi national team goalkeeper Charles Swini has died at age 39, writes Alinafe Nyanda.
Swini, who earned 35 caps for the Flames and helped the team reach the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations, collapsed at his home Monday and died at Kamuzu Central Hospital.
He had been battling kidney problems.
“In this sorrowful time, we would like to extend to the family of Swini our heartfelt condolences,” Football Association of Malawi general secretary Alfred Gunda said in a statement.
“May our Lord comfort you and your loved ones in these trying times. Our prayer is that the soul of Charles should rest in eternal peace.”
Soccer comentator-cum-Member of Parliament Mike Bango said he was “devastated” by the news.
“Sad that you have gone at the time we were thinking of serving football with another task,” Bango said.
Sports analyst Willy Chabwinja described Swini as “a great man, a gentle giant loved by current and former players as well as sports fraternity.”
“We convey our deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult and very sad time. May his soul rest in peace,” Chabwinja said.
Swini made his debut with Escom United in 2008 and later played for Silver Strikers and Mozambique's UD Songo.
He helped Malawi qualify for its first Nations Cup in 2010 under coach Kinnah Phiri.
Swini earned his first cap in a 2009 COSAFA Cup loss to Mozambique.
He last played professionally in 2020 with Civo United before retiring.