Frank Mojah Dzuwa 

Malawi 2-1 Zimbabwe 

The Malawi Under-20 National Football team got their Cosafa Youth Championship Region 5 games campaign off to a flying start with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe at the Hage Geingob Stadium in Namibia.

The match got off to a bright start for the Flames, with Mwisho Mhango breaking the deadlock in the 24th minute. Mhango’s goal was a testament to the team’s attacking prowess, as he latched onto a neat exchange of passes with Misheck Billiat providing the assist.

Zimbabwe levelled the score line in the 57th minute, with Tabiwa Chamuchichi scoring a well-taken goal. Chamuchichi’s grounder flew in through the near post, leaving the Flames goalkeeper Luciano Fanuel with no chance.

However, Mhango was not done yet. He completed his brace in the 72nd minute with another intelligent finish, restoring the junior Flames’ lead.

Speaking after the match, head coach Millias Pofera Jegwe praised his team’s performance, saying,  “It was a very tough game, you know Zimbabwe have got talented players.  They came to win the game and we have been studying Zimbabwe the way they played. It’s a very good win for Malawi.”

“When we leave here, we want to make a statement. We will take each game as it comes and see what the future holds for us.” he added.

Mhango claimed the man of the match award after scoring a brace.
The junior Flames will host Namibia on Sunday before wrapping up their group qualifiers on Tuesday against Angola.

#LineUp
Luciano Fanuel, James Msongole, Precious Kwalenga, Moffat Mnyontho, Misheck Billiat, Kondwani Tebulo, Madalitso Safuli, Precious Manjawira, Lameck Mithi, Mwisho Mhango, Yusuf Namtunga.