Africa-Press – Malawi. In an electrifying match on Tuesday, December 26, 2023, the Malawi Armed Forces College (MAFCO) Soldiers stormed into the Airtel Top 8 final after disconnecting Silver Strikers’ Airtel network for unpaid bills to reach the final of the cup’s 6th edition.
Despite a Patrick Macheso strike in the 28th minute assisted by Chimwemwe Idana, Silver’s lead was short-lived. Prince Kachere equalized for MAFCO in the 81st minute with an assist from Mphatso Philimon, exposing lapses in Silver’s defense.
The deadlock led to a 1-1 score, ultimately progressing to post-match penalties, where MAFCO sealed their 3-1 victory and secured a place in the final against FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on January 6, 2024.
During the penalty kicks, Silver Strikers faltered as Chisomo Mpachika and Mark Fodya brought in specifically for spot-kick duties, missed their shots. Captain Chikondi Kamanga’s penalty was saved by Christopher Mikuwa, while Innocent Shema executed the Airtel money transaction effectively.
MAFCO’s Peter Katsonga led the charge, scoring alongside Paul Ndhlovu and Aubrey Chafewa in a decisive ‘Monkey run’ style, while Paul Phiri skied his kick. Despite dominating possession in the first half with their ‘4G Airtel internet’, Silver failed to capitalize on numerous chances created.
Veteran Atusaye Nyondo hit the upright in the 51st minute, and despite Silver’s efforts, they couldn’t capitalize on opportunities created throughout the game.
As the intensity heightened, bookings came swiftly, with Paul Ndhlovu and Stain Malata both receiving yellow cards within two minutes for fouls on Patrick Macheso.
However, efforts from both sides failed to secure a winning goal until the final whistle. The fate of the game rested on post-match penalties, where Silver Strikers failed to secure their spot in the Airtel Top 8 final.
MAFCO, surviving the elite league chop on the final day, demonstrated their determination to claim a cup this year, following their semifinal exit in the Castel Challenge Cup.
Silver Strikers, aiming for a season end with two cup victories, now shift their focus to the Castel Challenge Cup, where they are slated to meet FCB Nyasa Big Bullets.
Having previously clinched the Airtel Top 8 title twice in 2017 and 2021, Silver Strikers aimed for a repeat this year but faced an unexpected setback as MAFCO soldiers disconnected all hopes of victory.
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