Flames coach Tom Saintfiet has withdrawn the $10 000 [about K4.3 million] bonus he asked for on condition that he guides the Flames to beat Nigeria’s Super Eagles in a 2014 decisive World Cup qualifier on September 6.
Football Association of Malawi (FAM) president Walter Nyamilandu announced during a press briefing that instead, the coach has pledged to donate the money towards a charitable cause should he realise his ambitious dream.
“Nobody forced him [to change his mind], he did it willingly to avoid misconceptions because there was a lot that was reported in the media,” said Nyamilandu during a press briefing held at FAM’s Chiwembe Technical Centre on Tuesday.
Nyamilandu also reiterated that the Belgian tactician is here as a volunteer and depending on the outcome of the Nigeria showdown, FAM will determine the way forward.
The FAM president also appealed to Malawians to give the coach and the team the necessary support.
“I would like to ask all Malawians to forget the past and support the cause. This is about the nation.
“We are open to constructive criticism and advice 24/7,” said Nyamilandu.
Asked what makes him believe that the Flames can defy the odds and stun the African champions in the cauldron of Calaba in just a month’s time, Saintfiet said: “I would be stupid to come here and say we can’t beat Nigeria.
“As I said, to me money is not the motivation and that is why I am ready to work as a volunteer. To me, beating Nigeria will be the best bonus,” said Saintfiet.
The Flames mentor added that he draws his motivation from the fact that Namibia and Kenya were able to hold the Super Eagles.
Saintfiet also said although he was not disturbed by the negative comments about him, “it is not pleasant when journalists write things that are incorrect about me…wrong facts and so on.
“But I have no control over that. I believe in my goal to beat Nigeria,” he said.
