Mafco promotions jerk army teams
There is renewed determination among Malawi Defence Force (MDF) football teams following Mafco squad’s promotion within the rank and file of the Army.
Army Commander Henry Odillo sanctioned the promotion of Mafco players, coaches and executive committee members after beating Silver Strikers 9-8 on post-match penalties to win the Presidential Cup.
The commander’s gesture has rubbed off other army teams such as Red Lions, Moyale Barracks (KB) and Kamuzu Barracks. The Lions and KB have not won silverware this decade.
“The attitude and the mood in training has drastically changed for the better. Players are rearing to achieve something this season knowing this will catch the attention of the bosses. What has happened to Mafco is an extra motivation. We all work for promotion and we now believe it is possible to rise if we achieve something on the field of play,” Moyale coach Nicholas Mhango said on Wednesday.
In countries such as Zambia performing footballer/soldiers earn promotion instantly. The Chipolopolo captain Christopher Katongo is now a senior officer in that country’s army after his sterling performances over the years including winning the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations as the pinnacle.
Mhango said it was encouraging that such a positive development is also taking place in Malawi.
KB general secretary Dickson Mtontholo also echoed their Moyale counterparts, vowing that MDF teams are likely to sweep silverware this season. There is Carlsberg Cup, Standard Bank Knockout Trophy and the TNM Super League to fight for.
“It is a big encouragement for us playing football in the army and you should expect more surprises,” said Mtontholo.
Several Lions players shared KB’s opinion.
In an interview last Tuesday, Odillo said his institution would continue recognising outstanding performers in various disciplines.
“This is the best news ever. Everybody is extremely proud of Mafco’s achievements. We want to go an extra mile; we cannot be complacent. [As for the promotion] That’s internal. We handle things internally. Anybody who is doing well will be rewarded,” Odillo said.
