Blantyre, May 30: Malawi national football team aka the Flames claimed the COSAFA Cup 2015 Plate title after beating Zambia 1-0 in their final match at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace on Friday.
The Flames decisive moment in the match came as Mozambican based Zicco Mkanda took advantage of a mistake from Zambia goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene to score when de attempted to dribble the on rushing striker who intercepted the ball and watched it roll over the line.
The match saw both sides finish with 10 men after Flames captain Lucky Malata received his second booking on 65 minutes, and soon afterwards Zambia’s Donashano Malama was also sent to the stand.
Flames coach Young Chimodzi featured Charles Swini in goals, while Limbikani Mzava, John Lanjesi, Yamikano Fodya and Limbikani Mzava were left with the mantle to marshal the defence.
On the midfield, Chimango Kayira and John Banda were men who kept the engine room boiling, as Gerald Phiri and Micium Mhone were responsible in curving crosses to Tizowere Kumwenda and Zicco Mkanda upfront.
The Flames were determined from the kick-off as they kept the Chipolopolo boys on the tight rope, especially on the midfield where Gerald Phiri’s and Chimango Kayira gelled well.
Towards the end of the game, Zambia tried to press the Flames , but they failed to trouble the Flames, who were outstanding in defence.
Malawi
- Charles Swini 2. Limbikani Mzava, 3. John Lanjesi, 4. Lucky Malata ( Red carded), 5. Yamikani Fodya, 6. Micium Mhone ( Frank Banda), Tizowere Kumwenda ( Robin Ngalande who was also substituted for Bashir Maunde), 8 Chimango Kayira, 9. Zicco Mkanda, 10. Gerald Phiri, 11. John Banda
Zambia
16.Kennedy Mweene2. Donashano Malama 18. Emmanuel Mbola 4.Christopher Munthali 6.Davies Nkausu14.Kondwani Mtonga 8.Paul Katema 11.Allan Mukuka 17. Mukuka Mulenga (Kennedy Mudenda) 20. Jimmy Njobvu 21. Jackson Mwanza.
