Africa-Press – Malawi. By Peter Fote in Windhoek, Namibia:
Malawi men’s Under-20 National Football Team will this afternoon be looking to break a 17- year drought when facing South Africa’s Amajita in the final of the African Union Sports Council (Ausc) Region 5 Games at University of Namibia in Windhoek.
Flames U-20 last won the trophy in 2008 in South Africa.
There is more to this game as the junior Flames itch to avenge last year’s loss they suffered at the hands of Amajita.
All eyes will be on the 17-year-old attacker Mwisho Mhango who has taken the tournament by storm, scoring five goals in four matches and picking two man-of-the match accolades.
The highly rated teenager scored a goal in either half, helping the junior Flames stun young Chipolopolo Boys 2-1 to reach the final.
Malawi is highly motivated by the coming in of midfielder maestro Moffat Mnyontho who was suspended for the Zambia match after accumulating two yellow cards.
In his absence Maxwell Sakanamba filled Mnyontho’s boots against Zambia.
At this moment, Malawi Coach Millias Pofera Jegwe will likely recall Mnyontho back into the starting line up to bring stability and life in the midfield.
Jegwe said his team’s mission was to win the cup but he warned his charges to guard against complacency.
“We are at war, we will fight and not relent. We respect South Africa but we also feel it is time we make Malawi proud. The boys are ready and know the importance of winning this game and stakes therein,” he said.
However, Amajita’s assistant coach Thabo Mngomeni told the media immediately after their 2-0 win over Angola that their goal was to win the cup despite which team they play.
“We brought an under 17 squad here knowing that we will play under 20’s. As you are aware we are also preparing for the Under 17 World Cup finals. Winning this tournament will be a big motivation to the young players we have,” Mngomeni said.
South Africa will be relying on the pace in the midfield and strikers with Khwezi Akhoza and Katleho Malebana to lead the attack but junior Flames’ defence marshalled by James Musongole and Precious Kwalenga has been solid and stubborn.
To reach the final, Malawi beat Zambia 2-1 whereas South Africa eliminated Angola 2-0.
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