Ng’ambi, Mzava, Harawa ruled out of Chad game

The Flames have been dealt a blow ahead of tomorrow’s 2015 Africa Cup of Nations second preliminary round, first-leg encounter as their midfield maestro Robert Ng’ambi and defender Limbikani Mzava have been ruled out.

Diminutive forward Green Harawa, who was Super League player of the season, has also been ruled out due to injury.

However, coach Young Chimodzi said while the two are key members of the squad, their absence should not be cause for worry.

Ng’ambi has an ankle injury on his left leg that has led to his failure to train with the team since his arrival early this week.

On the other hand, Mzava has been ruled out after Football Association of Malawi (FAM) sought clarification from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on whether the two yellow cards he got against Nigeria in a 2014 World Cup qualifier would apply in this competition.

CAF advised FAM that the suspension extended to the continental tournament.

However, the solace is that goalkeeper Charles Swini who did not train on Tuesday due to a shoulder injury, has recovered.

Ng’ambi yesterday said he was disappointed to miss tomorrow’s game.

“I thought I would push myself and be fit for the game, but the pain is just too much. Nevertheless, we have a pool of good young players that the coaches can choose from and I am confident that even in my absence, the team will do well,” said Ng’ambi considered the hub of the team.

Ng’ambi was on target when the Flames walloped Chad 6-2 during the 2012 Afcon qualifiers at home. He also scored in the return leg when the Flames were held 2-2 in N’djamena in 2011 to be denied successive qualification to the African safari.

However, Chimodzi said: “Obviously, the absence of the two players is a blow, but we have confidence in the players that we feel can fill their positions.”

Already, the Flames are without Robin Ngalande and veteran forward Esau Kanyenda due to club commitments.