FAM clarifies on Bingu Stadium readiness
Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has clarified that the Bingu National Stadium (BNS) in Lilongwe is fit to host Saturday’s international friendly match between Malawi and Guangzhou R & F.
In a statement issued yesterday, FAM general secretary Alfred Gunda said the association, through its Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) and Fifa certified local stadium inspectors, has certified the facility fit to host the match as well as any other.
He said it is the mandate of the local football governing body to certify the stadium ahead of such friendly matches and not CAF or Fifa as earlier perceived.
“For now, it is our responsibility to certify the facility and not international bodies. CAF and Fifa will only come to certify this pitch for their own competitions such as Africa Cup of Nations [Afcon] and the Fifa World Cup qualifiers.
“So, as per the assessment of FAM through our technicians who inspect venues across Africa, this facility is in excellent condition to host Saturday’s match,” said Gunda.
The Flames have since moved to Lilongwe and are camping at Crossroads Hotel. They will be training at the BNS upper ground.
The 30-member Guangzhou delegation is expected to arrive in the country on Thursday and will be camping at Golden Peacock Hotel.
The match is one of the activities lined up to mark the official opening of the 40 000 seater stadium. n
