National Sports

Flames Lilongwe trip delayed

Civo Stadium, venue of the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations decisive qualifier between Malawi’s Flames and Ghana’s Black Stars will only be ready for use next week.

Flames coach Kinnah Phiri has described the development as a setback, saying the hosts will have little time to get used to the pitch in the countdown to the match.

There are also fears that the stadium might not be ready to host the proposed international friendly match against Mali’s Eagles in preparation for the Ghana showdown.

“We had planned to relocate to Lilongwe this weekend so that we could start training at the match venue on Monday.

“But according to information I have just gathered from FAM executive member James Mwenda, the pitch has been applied with black soil and it might take another week or so before we can have access to train. The situation is definitely worrisome,” said Kinnah.

He also said he has doubts as to whether the Flames will be able to play an international friendly match at Civo considering its current state.

“The whole purpose of proposing an international friendly game was that we should get the feel of the pitch before the Ghana game, but I doubt if the stadium will be able to host the match,” he said.

FAM chief executive officer Suzgo Nyirenda on Wednesday confirmed that the Flames’ relocation to Lilongwe could be delayed.

“The coach was desperate that the team should relocate to Lilongwe at least by this weekend.

“But according to information from Mr. Mwenda, it might take another four to five days before it is in good shape. But we have an assurance that there has been tremendous improvement on the condition of the pitch. I will be travelling to Lilongwe to inspect the stadium soon,” said Nyirenda.

However, the FAM CEO said the Flames could still relocate to Lilongwe as planned and train at either Silver Stadium or Nankhaka as they wait for the match venue to be ready.

Commenting on the progress of the proposed friendly match against Mali, Nyirenda said: “We had preliminary discussions with the Mali FA and we are waiting for their final response.

“However, in the event that they accept, the tricky part will be whether Civo Stadium will be ready to host the match. So, let us wait and see what comes up by the end of the week.”

Mwenda, who is overseeing the Civo Stadium refurbishment, said he was satisfied with the progress so far.

“I went there yesterday [Tuesday] and I would say there has been tremendous progress.

“Apart from applying black soil, the authorities have also hired a water bowser and a roller to level the ground and I am optimistic that by mid next week, the ground should be ready for inspection. Thereafter, the Flames can start training,” said Mwenda.

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