Malawi all systems go for Chad game, govt releases K22m
A sigh of relief to Football Association of Malawi (Fam), as Malawi government has finally released a sum of K22 million for the Flames trip to Chad after speculations that there was no funding for the team to take part in the first leg of the Africa Cup of Nations encounter in Ndjamena.
There was panic as Fam were yet to purchase the air tickets for players, since there was no indication from government to release the needed cash.
However, FAM said on Friday that it was thankful to “for funding the Chad trip to the tune of MK 22 million which is covering all internal training camping expenses, air tickets and external allowances.”
The association further said: “We are very grateful for the funds and special mention should go to the State President Professor Bingu wa Mutharika, the officials from the Ministry of Sports and sports council for making it possible for the team to travel to Ndjamena.”
The statement was issued and signed by signed by Fam’s Chief Executive Officer Sugzo
Nyirenda.
Final squad
Meanwwhile, Malawi coach Kinnah Phiri has picked a final a 10-man Flames localy based
players, who will join the foreign –based players in Chad.
In the list, Kinnah has drafted in Escom United goaltender Charles Swini to be the substitute to Mozambican based Simplex Nthara.
In defence, with the absence of three key players namely Peter ‘Mjojo’ Mponda, Elvis Kafoteka and Harry Nyirenda, the coach has roped inn Mighty ‘Nyerere’ Wanderers Foster ‘Zagaf’ Namwera, Blue Eagles right back Steven Chagoma and Civo United no nonsense defender Pilirani Makupe.
On the middle of the park, with the absence of Platinum Stars versatile midfielder Robert ‘Baggio’ Ng’ambi, Kinnah has included Wanderers genius midfielder Joseph ‘Shakira’ Kamwendo, Ndaziona
‘6 million’ Chatsalira, John Banda and slippery Chimango Kayira.
The mantle to score goals in front has been left in the hands of Epac 2010-2011 TNM Super League top scorer Ishmael Thindwa, who is likely to partner Platinum hit-man Chiukepo Msowoya and SuperSport wonder boy Atusaye ‘Atute’ Nyondo.
However, latest reports from South Africa according to Fam, Thanda Royal Zulu right winger Peter Wadabwa has suistained a fresh injury adding more misery to Flames Coach who has already a bulk of injured players on his list.
The team is expected to leave for Ndjamena on Sunday, February 26, 2012 boarding Kenya Airways flight at 2350 hours and will be accommodated at Novotel Hotel.
