By: Lackson Kanyoza
Flames mentor Ernest Mtawali has defended his team selection saying it’s not a defensive squad but rather an aggressive squad.
The flames coach on Friday released a 20 member squad that has eight defenders to face Guinea away in African Cup of Nations Qualifier on Friday.
Eight defenders in the squad are Limbikani Mzava, Stanley Sanudi, Francis Mlimbika, Miracle Gabeya, Wonderful Jeremani, Yamikani Fodya, John Lanjesi and Harry Nyirenda.
But, Mtawali in an interview clarified that he is trying to fuse in new philosophy whereby players should not stick playing on one position.
“No, it’s not a defensive squad but as coaches we are trying to bring in new system in the team. You can see that Fodya and Wonderful Jeremani are defenders but we can also use them to play in the wings. We have best options to choose and we don’t want a player just to stick on one position,” said Mtawali.
The flames had a bad away record but Mtawali is optimistic that the players he had picked will deliver in Guinea.
Football analysts have noted that by picking a defensive squad the coach is trying to avoid a loss and he opted for a draw or a win
Meanwhile, flames vice Captain Chiukepo Msowoya said the team is ready to battle.
“It’s a very important and a must to win this game. As players we are ready and we have confidence that will bring good results,” Msowoya said
According to Football Association of Malawi (FAM) general secretary Suzgo Nyirenda, the Flames, who leave today for Guinea, will spend a night in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, before proceeding to Sierra Leone through Ghana.
The Flames will play a strengthening match against Sierra Leone on Tuesday before connecting to Guinea in the evening soon after the game.
The Match against Guinea will be played on March 25 March, at 16:40hrs Malawi time.
The return leg will be played at Kamuzu stadium on 29 March.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.