Mixed fortunes for Malawian players in Nedbank Cup

Malawian players endured mixed fortunes in the Nedbank Cup in South Africa over the weekend.

Baroka FC of midfielder Gerald Phiri Junior and striker Richard Mbulu advanced to the semi-finals of the competition after beating rivals Black Leopards of compatriot Robert Ng’ambi 1-0 at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. Defender Joseph Douhadji scored into his own net.

Phiri Junior and Mbulu came off the bench for Baroka who also defeated Leopards 2-0 in the Absa Premier League match last week whereas Ng’ambi came on as a substitute but he could not help his team.

But Phiri’s Junior missed a penalty after Mbulu was pushed over in the 18-yard area by Khuliso Mudau.

“Substitute Phiri Junior took on the spot kick and saw his effort skim off the outside of the post, with Muleka having the shot covered had it been on target. Bakgaga, however, did not dwell on the missed opportunity and finally broke the deadlock in the 80th minute. Tshidiso Patjie’s low cross from the right was stabbed into his own by the unfortunate defender Joseph Doughadji,” South African media reported over the weekend.

Phiri Junior missed last week’s victory over their Limpopo rivals due to a minor injury but was introduced as the second half substitute for Baroka on Saturday.

Flames defender Limbikani Mzava failed to help his side to reach the semi-finals after Highlands Park lost 1-0 to Mamelodi Sundowns. Baroka have joined Bidvest Wits and Sundowns in the last-four. As we went to press yesterday, TS Sporting of Chawangwa Kaonga were in action against Bloemfontein Celtic in the quarterfinals.

Frank Gabadihno Mhango’s Orlando Pirates exited the competition in the round of 16 last month.