South Sudan coach Seseko insists his underdogs can shock Malawi 

South Sudan coach N’sengi Biembe Seseko has declared himself confident of springing a shock result against Malawi in Friday’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Bingu National Stadium, despite admitting his side’s build-up has been anything but smooth.

Speaking to reporters at Bingu National Stadium, the Congolese tactician revealed the extraordinary pressure of taking charge of his very first match as head coach, in conditions far from ideal.

“We are happy to be here. This is my first game as head coach. Preparations have not been easy because the league was ongoing,” Seseko admitted.

But the newly-appointed boss was quick to insist his side would not use the disrupted preparations as a get-out clause ahead of the high-stakes clash in Lilongwe.

“But that is not an excuse, we want to win this game. We are in progression but we are here to get a good result,” he said defiantly.

Seseko openly acknowledged his side arrive as clear underdogs against a Malawi team many expect to dominate — but insisted that status would only fuel his players’ hunger for an upset.

“We are going to adapt. I trust in the quality of the players. Despite being a low ranked team in the group we are not under pressure. Mathematically we are good,” he said.

“There are no big or small teams in football. We have seen that at the world cup. The fact that we are viewed as underdogs will motivate us to play better,” the coach added defiantly.

Backing up his coach’s bullish stance, South Sudan captain Peter Maker — who has previous experience facing the Flames — declared himself confident his side can finally get the better of Malawi.

Maker recalled a previous meeting between the two nations that ended in painful fashion for South Sudan, despite a battling display.

“The last time we faced Malawi was at Kamuzu Stadium. We had a very good game despite dropping points. This is a new team and we are ready to get a good result,” Maker said.

The skipper went further, insisting his side now boast the quality to trouble Malawi and should not be written off ahead of Friday’s clash.

“I think this time we are good as we have good players. No one is underrating the other. These days there is no lower team, who needs it more wins,” he said.