RVG plays it safe

Flames new coach Ronny van Geneugden has said it is too early to comment on the strength of his squad, a week after taking charge of the team.

He was responding to a question on his impression of the team ahead of Sunday’s 2018 Championship of African Nations (Chan) preliminary first leg against Madagascar away in Antananarivo.

The Flames left for Madagascar yesterday via Kenya where they will play a strength-testing game against the Harambee Stars in Nairobi tomorrow.

“We are going step by step. The players are very motivated and talented, but it’s quite too early to say anything at the moment.

“As we go along, I will have a clear picture on where we stand and what we need to do going forward,” he said.

Commenting on the Madagascar game, which will be his first competitive match in charge, the Belgian tactician said he would like to start on a good note.

“Obviously, my expectation is to start with a good result and I want to see if the players can get a good [away] result that will be vital.

“Winning away always puts you at an advantage going into the second leg and that is what we have to fight for,” he said.

The coach also said he has had a wonderful working relationship with his backroom staff.

“It has been good, very good,” he said.

Team captain Dave Banda said as players, they are adapting to the new coach’s philosophy.

“He is an accomplished tactician and we are conforming to his tactics and techniques, but he has only been with us for a week,.Nevertheless, we are hopeful that in due course, we should have a clear picture of what he expects from us,” he said. 

Last week, Van Geneugden told Flames players that he expects a free-flowing pass-and-move game that should create a chemistry between them and the fans.

“I am not a god of football, but I am here to help you improve on your standard of play that should help us win matches.

“We should always strive to keep possession and play the type of football that you can enjoy and that the fans can enjoy and not play kick-and-rush. I am here to help you improve your careers,” said the Belgian tactician who signed a three-year deal with the Football Association Malawi (FAM).

 Van Geneugden also expressed the need to have a good team spirit, saying it is only by pulling in the same direction that they can achieve success. He also dwelt at length on the need for discipline, saying he will not compromise on conduct.

“You need to demonstrate passion, commitment and hunger towards the game.”

Following is the full squad that has made the trip: Players: Goalkeepers: Ernest Kakhobwe, Lemani Nthala and Brightone Munthali; Defenders: Pempho Kansichili, Yamikani Fodya, Francis Mulimbika, Lucky Malata, John Lanjesi, Stanley Sanudi; Midfielders: Dave Banda (C), Levison Maganizo, Simeon Singa, Harvey Nkacha, Dalitso Sailesi, Kelvin Hanganda, Gilbert Chirwa, Yamikani Chester and Chimango Kayira; Strikers: Manasse Chiyesa and Muhammad Sulumba; Officials: Team leader: James Mwenda; Head coach: Ronny van Geneugden; Assistant coach: Gerald Phiri; Second assistant coach: Deklerk Msakakuona; Team manager: Peter Mponda; Goalkeeper trainer: Phillip Nyasulu; Team doctor: Levison Mwale n