First Capital Bank hinted that it will continue bankrolling the K35 million National Under-20 Football League following the success of this year’s edition.
The bank’s Group Head of Risk and Compliance, Williams Masamba, made the remarks at the end of this year’s competition at Mulanje Park Stadium on Saturday.
“We are impressed with how National Youth Football League managed the competition as such we plan to come back next year. As our slogan states that ‘Belief Comes First’, be well assured that the bank will continue sponsoring the league,” he said.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Francis Phiso, who was the guest of honour, was amazed with reports that some members of the league were part of the Under-20 squad travelling to Lusaka, Zambia for Cosafa Youth Championship.
“First Capital Bank is doing great work by equipping our youngsters with skills. The impact of the league is quite impressive as some players are with the junior Flames,” he said.
National Youth Football Association (NYFA) chairperson, Chimango Munthali, said he was happy that the league continues to produce talent for the national football teams.
Football Association of Malawi (Fam) President, Walter Nyamilandu, said the league was producing players for national teams and Super League sides.
“First Capital Bank made a good decision by supporting this league because we are able to identify and nurture young talent,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mzuzu-based Sanwecka were crowned 2019 champions after beating Blantyre-based Ndirande Stars 3-1 in the final.
Sanwecka have joined Moyale Youth and Fish Eagles as the only champions from the Northern Region in the 12 year old competition.
Chancy Kaonga, Wongani Lungu and Prince Njaliwa scored for Sanwecka with Richard Luciano scoring Stars’ consolation.
Sanwecka Coach, Charles Kamanga, said his players followed instructions.
“We wanted to score early and we managed it. This unsettled our opponents,” he said.
Stars Coach, Louis Makandanji, said they lost because of slow start.
In individual awards, Kaonga of Sanwecka won the golden boot award while his teammate Chawanangwa Mkandawire won the player of the tournament award.
