Uganda thrash Malawi at Tanzanian beach soccer

Malawi national beach soccer team yesterday lost to Uganda 9-12 after thrashing the Seychelles 8-3 on Thursday in the 2018 Copa Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania.

James Chikoko, who plays for Ministry of Tourism Beach Soccer Team scored six goals whereas Isaa Kajamo of Sunbird Nkopola scored two goals to ensure an overwhelming victory for Malawi on Thursday.

The tournament has drawn four teams, including Uganda and Tanzania.

Last year, Malawi lost to Zanzibar in the final.

Prior to the first game, coach Sterio Gondwe expressed optimism that they could win gold.

“Last year, though, it was our first time to take part in this competition, we finished as runners-up to champions Zanzibar, but this year we will try to win,” he said.

Now, they have to beat Tanzania if they are to repeat last year’s feat.

Gondwe blamed the loss on complacency.

“It was a physical game, but also we underrated them,” he said.

Beach Soccer Malawi publicity secretary Vincent Chirambo believes it is possible to beat Tanzania.

“It is unfortunate that we lost to Uganda, but the loss was not a reflection of the actual game. The team is okay and it is possible to beat Tanzania,” he said.

The team camped in Karonga for three days before flying to Dar-es-Salaam on Wednesday.

Players that have made the trip are Benson Genasi and Sammy Chilamba (from Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel).

Hyper Matola (Munali Beach Soccer), James Chikoka  and Zahiri Hamisi ,Chikumbutso Sharpman and Darlington Banda (Ministry of Tourism Beach Soccer), Ganizani Mphande (Beach Eagles), Isaac Kajamo (Nkopola Beach Soccer), Leonard Makumba (Mangochi Escom), Vanasio Malunga (MDF Marine) and Abdul Aziz Gaza (Nyasa Beach Soccer).

Coach Gondwe is assisted by Eswin Ntachi, team doctor is Noel Kapapa, liason officer Andy Madumuse, while team manager is Willie Kumilambe. n