Mighty Mukuru Wanderers turned on a majestic performance when they beat Mafco 2-0 at Chitowe Stadium Sunday to advance to the semifinals of the 2022 Airtel Top 8 Cup on 4-0 aggregate.
The Nomads won the first leg by a similar score line at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre a fortnight ago. They join holders Nyasa Big Bullets, who advanced to the semifinals after beating Karonga United 8-1 on aggregate.
Chiukepo Msowoya and Felix Zulu made the difference yesterday as they ensured Wanderers’ progression to the last four.
It was a day to forget for the Salima-based soldiers, who were second on the ball for the better part of the match.
For Wanderers, the result means they will either face Blue Eagles or Dedza Dynamos Salima Sugar in the semifinals of the competition.
Eagles are one foot in the semifinals after winning the first leg 3-0 at Nankhaka Stadium.
After the break, Wanderers brought in Francis Mkonda for Vitumbiko Kumwenda.
On the part of Mafco, they introduced Mphatso Philimon and Tony Mbulu for Zikani Sichinga and Peter Katsonga.
Wanderers also responded with a double substitution when they introduced Yamikani Chester and Wisdom Mpinganjira for Joseph Balakasi and Vincent Nyangulu.
Man-of-the- match, Msowoya, drew first blood in the 66th minute when he connected a Stanley Sanudi’s freekick.
Zulu put the game to bed when he scored the second goal after a good pass from Chester.
It was another disappointing year for Mafco, having failed to find the back of the net in two matches.
Wanderers Coach Mark Harrison said the players executed their game-plan well.
“The first half was a balanced match but in the second we took control of the game. We have to prepare well for the semifinals and we expect it to be a very tough match,” Harrison said.
Mafco Assistant Coach Jimmy Mzunga conceded defeat.
“The result was not a true reflection of the match. Anyway, we accept the defeat and move on,” Mzunga said.