Flames court Iraq

A Fifa match agent is trying to arrange an international friendly match between Iraq and the Flames next weekend in Turkey.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) president Walter Nyamilandu on Monday said the final position would be known today (Tuesday).

Also known as Lions of Mesopotamia, Iraq are ranked 72nd in the world—30 places above the Flames.

“We are in touch with a Fifa match agent who has approached us and we hope that he will be able to organise something meaningful and worthwhile for the Flames.

“It is too early to be certain about such leads and it is always better to take such leads seriously when it has been officially confirmed,” said Nyamilandu.

The FAM president said should it materialise, the Flames stand to benefit from the match because Iraq are a better side who once qualified for the global showcase—the World Cup in 1986.

“We are looking at playing another friendly match as part of our preparations for the 2014 World Cup and 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches which will take place next month.

“We do not have anything concrete yet, but we are following up on some leads which have just emerged. It is our sincere hope that our endeavours will bear fruit,” Nyamilandu added.

He also said the Iraq FA has pledged to foot the costs of hosting the match including travel expenses.

National coach Kinnah Phiri also said the Flames stand to benefit immensely as Iraq are considered one of the top teams in Asia.

“They have been to the World Cup and they have a good team. I am hoping that something positive will come out from the discussions,” he said.

They are coached by Brazilian legend Zico.

Their key players include defender Bassim Abbas who played for top clubs in Iran, Qatar and Turkey and captain Younis Mahmoud who has 41 goals in 100 appearances. He plays for Al-Wakrah in Qatar.

Last month they were held to a goalless draw by former African champions Egypt’s Pharaohs.