The streets of Ndirande came alive on Sunday as Multichoice Malawi launched its coverage of the 2026 Fifa World Cup with an energetic street football tournament.
The initiative saw the pay-TV giant organizing an impromptu match in one of the city’s most vibrant townships, attracting scores of football enthusiasts and demonstrating how the broadcaster intended to connect with Malawians beyond the television screen.
Yuk-yen Au-Yeung, Multichoice Malawi Head of Marketing, said the aim of taking the launch to Ndirande with street football was to be closer to the community and bring togetherness ahead of the much-anticipated competition.
“We are not just a brand; we want to connect and be as closer as we can to our customers. We like togetherness. This street football tournament in Ndirande embodies our philosophy—bringing the beautiful game to the people who love it most,” she said.
The tournament carries particular significance for the African continent. Africa will field a record 10 representatives at the 2026 Fifa World Cup, marking a milestone for the continent.
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The African teams confirmed for the tournament are Morocco, Senegal, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Cape Verde and South Africa, who all topped their qualifying groups, alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Osman Bakali, captain for Waka Waka FC, lauded Multichoice’s initiative.
“We, as youths, commend Multichoice for bringing us together, which is a rare thing. We are happy. Ndirande is one of the townships where people like football,” he said.
The winner of the tournament received a goat as their prize—a fitting nod to rural African traditions while celebrating the beautiful game.
