Flames lead Group B with 2 clean sheets
The Flames have taken firm control of Group B at the Hollywoodbets Cosafa Cup following their 2-0 victory over Seychelles in their second match at King Zwelithini Stadium in Durban, South Africa.
Two goals from FCB Nyasa Bullets forward Lanjesi Nkhoma and his Mighty Mukuru Wanderers counterpart Christopher Kumwembe in the 55th and 65th minute, respectively, sealed the Flames’ victory and emerged the tournament’s favourites.
The Flames now top the group with six points followed by Comoros who are second with three points despite losing 2-1 to third-placed Zambia’s Chipolopolo who also have three points.
Seychelles anchor the group after their second loss at the regional tournament.
Malawi just need a draw in their last group match against Comoros to be confirmed as the pool’s winner.
In the second match, interim coach Patrick Mabedi maintained the first XI that stunned Zambia last Thursday.
Impressive goalkeeper Brighton Munthali retained his role alongside defenders Stanley Sanudi, Nickson Mwase, Dennis Chembezi and Alick Lungu.
Defending midfielder Lloyd Aaron and attacking midfielder Chimwemwe Idana also took up their usual roles with Robert Saizi and Nkhoma attacking from the wings.
Upfront, Chawanangwa Kaonga and Christopher Kumwembe got the nod once more.
After a slow start, the match exploded into life as Malawi searched for an early goal.
However, the goals did not come in the first half.
Malawi continued a high pressing match, forcing the opponents to sit deep and commit some blunders.
The Flames finally got their opener after man-of-the match Kaonga’s fine cross found Nkhoma poised to head in past Seychelles goalkeeper.
Ten minutes later, the Flames doubled the lead through Kumwembe who connected from close range.
In a post-match interview, coach Patrick Mabedi said he was glad to collect full points.
He said: “We have collected full points and maintained a clean sheet. “We will go all the way. We will not relax.”
Seychelles coach Vivian Bothe said Malawi was superior tactically.
“We tried to sit back and defend and use counter-attacks, but it didn’t work,” he said.
Malawi face Comoros on Wednesday at Chatsworth Stadium.
