Mighty Wanderers defend Malawi Carlsberg Cup: Chipuwa hero in penalties

Richard Chipuwa was the hero as Mighty Be Forward Wanderers defended the Carlsberg Cup in style. Wanderers beat Silver Strikers 6-5 after post match penalties to win the 2016 edition of the Carlsberg Cup with goalkeeper Chipuwa serving a decisive Mathews Sibale spot-kick.

Silver scored early into the first half following a defensive lapse by Wanderers, a move which was well started by Duncan Nyoni. It appeared like Wanderers defenders were caught napping as Nyoni’s cross passed Foster Namwera and Harry Nyirenda before Victor Limbani connected it into the back of the net.

The Lilongwe based team could have gone 2-nil up midway the first half with Nyoni’s shot hitting the woodwork before Chipuwa cleared. A few minutes later, the Nomads were level from a corner kick that was well connected by Nyirenda.

Soon after recess, Wanderers sacrificed Jafalie Chande and Jimmy Zakazaka for Joseph Kamwendo and Ishmael Thindwa respectively. Midway the second half, referee Dennis Ngulube went off on health precautions forcing match commissioner Aziz Nyirenda to take charge of the game.

Five minutes before the final whistle, Kamwendo released Thindwa only for Bright Munthali to clear the ball forcing the game into post match pelnaties.

During the penalties, all the five Wanderers players picked for the first set of penalties converted While Chipuwa served Silver Strikers’ Mathews Sibale spot kick.

The win means Wanderers have defended the cup they won last year in Lilongwe after beating Nyasa Bullets.

Speaking after lifting trophy, Wanderer’s assistant Coach Elia Kananji who has won the cup for a third consecutive year now said his troops deserved the cup.

“We outplayed silver in almost all departments in the second half having started poorly but anyway we thank God the win. Silver gave us a good game and our supporters deserved something hence the victory,” said Kananji.

For his part, Silver Strikers Coach Lovemore Fazili commended Wanderers for the win.

He said despite the loss, he was happy with the way his players performed against a much experienced Wanderers side.

Sharing is caring!