…….MALAWI 2-2 GUINEA…..
By Edwin Mbewe
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi National Football Team wrapped up their 2023 Ivory Coast TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations group D qualifiers with a 2-2 draw against Guinea at Bingu National Stadium in the capital city of Lilongwe.
However, interim head coach Patrick General Mabedi expressed his dissatisfaction with how his team performed on Saturday afternoon.
“Let’s be honest, we didn’t live up to our expectations today. We aimed higher, but we also need to acknowledge that Guinea boasts a team of professional players. We are in a building process, and overall, I’m not quite pleased with our performance. We could have done better,” explained Mabedi.
“We struggled to manage the game and maintain possession while also giving away possession too easily. The injury to our goalkeeper, Brighton, was another setback. However, I must commend the team for not losing today. As we prepare for the World Cup qualifiers, we are providing opportunities to both experienced players and younger talents.
“Yet, our coordination was lacking, and we failed to capitalize on numerous first-half chances. This match has given us a clear picture of where we stand ahead of crucial games,” Mabedi added.
Malawi took the lead in the 22nd minute through winger Robert Saizi, who slotted home a rebound with his left foot after Guinea’s defender blocked forward Lanjesi Nkhoma’s shot.
At halftime, Malawi led 1-0, and after the break, Guinea made several changes to inject energy into their game, which had been slow in the first half. These substitutions significantly altered the course of the match.
Morlaye Sylla was replaced by Seydouba, Ilaix Moriba came in for Ibrahuna Cisse and Mohammed Ali Camara was substituted by Saidou Sow.
The National Elephants swiftly scored two goals in just two minutes, capitalizing on defensive lapses by Malawi. Camara Aguibou equalized in the 56th minute, beating Clever Nkungula, who had replaced Black Leopards goalkeeper Brighton Munthali at halftime due to injury.
Saidou Sow extended Guinea’s lead two minutes later, pouncing on a rebound after a floated ball struck the post.
In response, Malawi Coach Patrick Mabedi made substitutions, bringing in Wisdom Mpinganjira and Christopher Kumwembe for Richard Mbulu and Lanjesi Nkhoma in the 68th minute.
Tatenda M’balaka, making his debut, was replaced by Francisco Madinga, while Peter Banda came in for the injured Aaron Lloyd.
Despite the changes, the home team struggled to create chances, much like in the first half, until the 88th minute when defender Lawrence Chaziya soared through the air to head home from a well-taken corner kick by Robert Saizi.
Previously, Malawi had lost 1-0 away in Conakry, Guinea, with the only goal scored by Naby Keita in the dying minutes.
The Flames also suffered defeats both home and away to Egypt, resulting in a 6-0 aggregate loss.
The Malawi team managed to defeat Ethiopia 2-0 at home but lost in the reverse fixture in Mozambique.
In Group D, Guinea and Egypt have secured qualification.
Meanwhile, Zambia, Mozambique, Angola, and South Africa have qualified from Southern Africa.
