The Malawi National Football Team has advanced to the second round of the CHAN playoffs by defeating Comoros 4-0 on aggregate. The team repeated their 2-0 victory in both legs of the tie. They now prepare to face either South Africa or Egypt in the next round, with their focus also on the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers against Namibia.
The Malawi National Football Team has advanced to the second round of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) playoffs, defeating Comoros 4-0 on aggregate in a two-legged tie held at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe. The team secured a 2-0 victory in both matches, successfully replicating their performance in the second leg and now eagerly anticipates their next competitor, whether it will be South Africa or Egypt, the latter of whom will contest the second leg on Sunday after a draw in the first leg.
As the match commenced, both teams were eager to establish dominance following an intense first leg. Coach Kalisto Pasuwa made a single change to the starting lineup, bringing in Wongani Lungu to replace Ephraim Kondowe, transitioning to a 4-3-3 formation to enhance midfield balance. Conversely, Comoros’ coach Zainoudine Msoili implemented two changes, swapping out players to strengthen their attacking strategy.
Despite their dominance, Malawi was unable to score in the first half, generating five corner kicks and one shot on target—a free-kick by Wongani Lungu that was saved. Comoros produced three corner kicks but failed to challenge Malawi goalkeeper George Chikooka, who maintained a clean sheet for the second consecutive match.
The second half saw Malawi come out aggressively, with Lungu scoring just five minutes after halftime, capitalizing on a miscommunication in Comoros’ defense. The Flames extended their lead to 2-0 nine minutes later when Binwell Katinji connected powerfully with MacDonald Lameck’s cross.
Katinji nearly added another goal in the 69th minute, but was thwarted by a superb save from Comoros’ goalkeeper. Recognizing the necessity for fresh energy, Pasuwa made three substitutions, infusing the squad with new players. Despite an attempt from Kondowe and a striking effort by Comoros’ Said Sadad, the final score remained unchanged.
Following this victory, head coach Kalisto Pasuwa commended his players for their efforts: “Well done to Malawi and all of us for reaching the second round of the playoffs. It wasn’t easy in the first half—we were jittery—but in the second half, we spoke to the players, and we got the goals.” Malawi now shifts its focus to the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Namibia at Bingu National Stadium on March 20.
In conclusion, the Malawi National Football Team has successfully progressed to the second round of the CHAN playoffs, showcasing their prowess through a consistent performance against Comoros. With upcoming matches against formidable foes, they are poised for additional challenges, particularly in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Namibia. The commendable leadership by Coach Kalisto Pasuwa and the tenacity of the players reflect their readiness for future competitions.
Original Source: malawi24.com
