Malawi football legends will from today step up their preparations for Saturday’s international friendly against their Zambian counterparts at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
Football Legends Association (FLA) board chairperson Jim Kalua said in an interview on Wednesday that players from all the regions are expected to assemble in Lilongwe today.
“The team will be training at Bingu National Stadium from Thursday morning [today] under coaches Kinnah Phiri and Young Chimodzi,” he said.
Kalua also said they are expecting South Africa-based midfielder Ernest Mtawali to join the squad later today.
He also said strikers John Maduka and Esau Kanyenda, who are based in South Africa and England, respectively, are expected to arrive tomorrow
“We are happy that Maduka and Kanyenda have confirmed their availability. So, we are assured of a full house,” he said.
The Malawi legends’ side is expected to be dominated by the Flames’ side that qualified for the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations in Angola, including Peter ‘Mjojo’ Mponda, Moses Chavula, Elvis Kafoteka, Joseph Kamwendo, Robert ‘Baggio’ Ng’ambi, Russell Mwafulirwa and Jimmy Zakazaka.
Others are Fischer Kondowe, Itaye Nundwe, Sibusiso Padambo, Green Harawa, Gift Zakazaka and Andrew ‘Aluki’ Chikhosi.
In an interview, Mtawali said the legends are looking forward to turning back the hands of time.
“We are all excited and the fans should brace for an exciting match. It will certainly not just be one of those matches,” he said.
Meanwhile, FLA board second vice-chairperson Justin Saidi said the Zambian legends are expected to arrive in the country by road through Mchinji Border later today.
“We have been in touch with the Football Association of Zambia on their travel arrangements,” he said.
The Zambian legends include Christopher Katongo and Clifford Mulenga.
