Flames go down fighting against Egypt
The class in terms of class and stature might be vast, but the Flames still put on a grand fight against Egypt’s Pharaohs despite losing 2-1 away in Alexandria.
It was the final friendly match for the Flames as they tune up for their 2017 Africa Cup of Nations opening qualifier against Zimbabwe’s Warriors on Saturday.
The record seven time African champions, who featured a full-strength squad in the strength-testing match at Borg El Arab Stadium, surged ahead in the 19th minute through Ahmed Mekky.
The hosts led 1-0 at interval before Mohamed El Gabbes made it 2-0 barely two minutes into the second-half after being put through by Hamdy Zaki.
Malawi hit one back through South Africa-based striker Atusaye Nyondo in the 64th minute.
According to soccerpunter.com, the Flames only made one substitution, pulling out Yamikani Fodya for Francis Mlimbika while the hosts made six substitutions.
Former Flames captain Peter Mponda, who followed the game online, hailed Malawi’s fighting spirit.
“I followed the proceedings on YouTube and I must say I am impressed with the fighting spirit of the guys. Egypt might not be the same team they were a couple of years back, but they are still one of the giants on the continents who are building a very strong team and for the guys to put up such a spirited performance, just shows their strong mental character and we need to encourage them.
“I have no doubt that with a proper game plan and tactics, we should get a positive result against Zimbabwe, the friendly match against Egypt was worth it and these are the teams we should be playing against if we are serious about making strides in the rough terrain of African football,” said Mponda.
Flames line up: McDonald Harawa, John Lanjesi, Mzava, Fodya (Mlimbika), Lucky Malata, Chimango Kayira, Joseph Kamwendo, Micium Mhone, John Banda, Gerald Phiri Jnr, Nyondo.
