Malawi nods to Ng’onamo’s proposal

Malawi Government says it will fund two international friendly matches as proposed by national coach Eddington Ng’onamo.

Soon after the Flames defeated Namibia last week, the caretaker coaching panel proposed to play two matches against Zimbabwe’s Warriors and Chipolopolo of Zambia before facing Namibia and Kenya.

Malawi host Namibia first week of June before facing Kenya a week later.

Sports Minster Enock Chihana said government has agreed to the request. He said government is just waiting to get the figures.

“We are ready to finance the team. We have given the green light for the friendlies to go ahead. We are just waiting for the budget. Once that is done, we’ll communicate to Treasury,” he said in an interview on Thursday.

During his speech when he welcomed the Flames from their triumphant return from Namibia on Monday, Chihana challenged FAM to organise friendly matches for the Flames so that the team is in shape for crucial World Cup return legs against Namibia and Kenya.

But Football Association of Malawi (FAM) chief executive officer Suzgo Nyirenda said friendly games against the proposed countries will depend on consent from the respective associations of the two countries.

He said, officially, Ng’onamo is yet to submit his proposal to FAM.

Meanwhile, FAM is set to hold an executive meeting on April 12 where Ng’onamo will be present and the issue of friendlies will be discussed.

Following the 1-0 victory last Saturday over Namibia, Malawi now has realistic chances of progressing to the last stage of the World Cup qualifiers.

The Flames are level with Nigeria on five points although the reigning African champions have a superior aggregate.