Army giants pitted against each other in Pres Cup
The Presidential Cup national phase round of 16 draw held on Thursday, produced interesting fixtures as four Malawi Defence Force (MDF) big teams were pitted against each other.
Moyale Barracks were drawn against Kamuzu Barracks while Cobbe Barracks will face Red Lions in an all Zomba affair.
Silver Strikers might also face defending champions Big Bullets if the Bankers win against Epac in their second-round fixture scheduled for Civo Stadium in the capital tomorrow (Saturday).
According to Football Association of Malawi (FAM) chief executive officer Suzgo Nyirenda, the quarter-final qualification games will take place during the weekend of May 15-16.
Nyirenda also emphasised that the determination of the venues will be made by the tournament’s organising committee.
“There has been a misconception in the past that when a team is drawn at home, then they are supposed to play the game at their home ground.
“But according to the rules of this tournament, the venue is determined by the organising committee,” said Nyirenda.
The FAM CEO also said they expect the teams to adhere to the rules.
Chinangwa Madrid director and coach Sam Mangasanja, whose team is one of the minnows that have made it to the round of 16, described the draw as fair.
Chinangwa have been drawn against Kabwafu.
“It is a fair draw, but we are just a community team without a sponsor. We are, therefore, appealing to well-wishers to assist us with resources to enable us to fulfil our game against Kabwafu because it is most likely we will travel,” said Mangasanja.
Mighty Wanderers, who were the first team to win the competition in 2009, and the only side to have won it twice, had a relatively easy draw as they will face Chinamwali.
In other games, Karonga United will host winners between Azam Tigers and Chanco who are scheduled to play at Zomba Community Centre ground tomorrow.
Mchinji-based Mikundi will take on Mzuzu United while Mafco will host Blue Eagles.
Nyirenda also said the quarter-finals will be played midweek on June 18 and 19 while the semi-finals on June 22 and 23.
“We have a very tight schedule because we are supposed to wind up on June 29 or 30, but the actual date and venue will be determined after consultations with government who are the sponsors,” he said.
