Flames intensify preparations for Zebras
Malawi national football team has intensified preparations for Saturday’s 2022 Fifa World Cup preliminary round qualifier against Botswana after arriving in Francistown on Wednesday night.
Leader of delegation James Mwenda, who is also Football Association of Malawi Vice President, said Gabadinho Mhango joined the squad in Johannesburg before departure for Botswana.
Mwenda said the team had a full day of training Thursday and all players were in great shape.
“I received a technical report from head coach Meke Mwase on how their preparations were before back home in Malawi. The coach has expressed satisfaction with how things were and is happy with the status quo.
“Our delegation arrived safely in Botswana and we cannot complain. I spoke with the coaches on the state of our preparedness and they assured me that everything is in place,” Mwenda said.
The Fam technical sub committee chairperson said Mhango’s arrival had brought more excitement in the squad which has five other foreign-based players.
Mwenda said the Flames would have their final training session this afternoon.
“I had time to talk to the players as soon as we arrived. They are confident and ready for the showdown. They have assured me that they will do everything possible to claim victory over Botswana. So I can assure Malawians that we have a team which is ready,” Mwenda said.
Meanwhile, Azerbaijan-based attacker Robin Ngalande said he was happy to return to national duty after moving to Europe from South Africa.
Ngalande has described the Flames’ youthful squad as a strong side with great potential.
“This team can go places if the players are kept together. I would like to thank the coach for giving me a chance to be part of this wonderful group. Apparently, most of the players I have on my return to the national team are new and young.
“We need to admit that things are changing. I watched them during this year’s Cosafa Cup and they were impressive. We just need to work hard against Botswana for us to win. Victory will help us to be comfortable back home on Tuesday during the return match,” Ngalande said.
Kamuzu Stadium will host the second leg.
