Africa-Press – Eswatini. Green Mamba conceded an early goal, which proved to be the decider in the first leg of the CAF Champions League in Mozambique yesterday.
Malawian national team Captain John Banda benefitted from a defence mishap and intercepted a loose ball to volley the ball past goalkeeper Xolani Gama at Zimpeto Stadium outside Maputo. While the Mozambique side controlled the proceedings in the first half, Green Mamba came strongly in the final quarter and were close to finding an equaliser. Notably, the Correctional Services side were without their Head Coach Ernest Mavuso, who was reportedly out due to CAF registration technicalities. However, he is expected to be on the bench on Sunday during the second leg which will be played at the same venue. Green Mamba have opted to use Zimpeto Stadium as their home venue because Mavuso Sports Centre and Somhlolo National Stadium do not qualify to host a CAF games s they do not meet CAF standards. While Mamba had limited chances in the first half, Colani Dlamini had his volley deflected for a corner just eight minute before half-time.
Powerful
Khetho Mkhontfo’s powerful shot inside the box was saved by the opposition keeper, Ernan Siluane. The second half saw the hosts almost doubling their advantage but former Mamelodi Sundowns star Elias Pelembe was denied by the woodwork three minutes into the second half. Mthunzi ‘Xavi’ Mkhontfo thought he had levelled matters five minutes into the second half but had his shot saved by Siluane. Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa almost restored parity for the home side but he saw his header missing the target by inches. Despite relentless attack, Inyoka eluhlazana could not find the equaliser as the Mozabicans stood their ground until the final whistle. If Mamba win at least 2-0 in the second leg, they will play Angola’s Petro de Luanda in the next round.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
