Kabwafu aim to cause upset in Pres Cup
The sole surviving lower league side in the Presidential Cup, Kabwafu, are relishing an opportunity of causing a big upset when they face giants Silver Strikers at Nankhaka this (Wednesday) afternoon.
In other potentially explosive fixtures, Mighty Wanderers host Red Lions at Kamuzu Stadium whereas at Chitowe in Dwangwa, it will be an all soldiers affair when Moyale face unpredictable Mafco. In Balaka, Azam Tigers engage Mzuzu United.
Kabwafu’s general secretary Watson Zimba said his side will not be under pressure since they carry the underdog tag, but will play their lungs out to cause an upset.
“The fact that we are the only lower league side that has made it this far, is, in itself an achievement, but we are aiming at getting past the quarter-final stage.
“We are not travelling to Liliongwe as a formality just to fulfil the fixture. Our boys are determined to get a result. We respect Silver as the national champions, but we are not fearing them,” said Zimba.
He also said a win would not only reward them financially in terms of prize money, but also boost their morale in their quest to return to the top-flight league.
Silver’s team manager S’busiso ‘Shaka’ Padambo said they cannot toy around with the idea of underrating Kabwafu.
“They are not a small team because they were in the Super League last season and they will be out to prove that though they were relegated, they are still a good side.
“We have also never won a cup for sometime now and our sights are set on winning the Presidential Cup,” said Padambo.
He also said apart from Ndaona Daisi who is out due to injury, the Bankers are still plastered with talent in the likes of boy wonder Chawanangwa Kaonga who is expected to mesh potently with Rodrick Gonani. In midfield, they will look up to Frank Banda, Peter ‘Pido’ Pindani, Young Chimodzi Jnr, Ndaziona Chatsalira and Jester Mulima to keep the supply lines open whereas captain Lucky Malata will marshal the defence.
At Kamuzu Stadium, the Nomads will bank their hopes on burly forward Innocent Dzimbiri and either revived Anthony Banda or Cuthbert Sinetre upfront whereas the likes of Alfred Manyozo Jnr, Benard Harawa, Mike Kaziputa and Timothy Chitedze will man the midfield.
Their coach Stuart Mbolembole hinted that his side will have a slight advantage playing at the ceremonial home of football.
“Our players are able to turn on the rhythm whenever playing at Kamuzu Stadium because the surface is good compared to Zomba Community Centre ground. We are also assured of vocal support from our fans, nevertheless, it will be tough,” said Mbolembole.
Boniface Kaulesi carried the hopes that have been thrust on his shoulders for the Lions.
