Online Reporter
Tadious Manyepo in Lilongwe
CAPS United’s pre-season tour of Malawi has turned into a full blown charm offensive after the Malawi Sports Council rolled out a rare show of respect that left the Green Machine basking in admiration far beyond the pitch.
In a moment that underlined just how warmly the Harare giants have been received in the Warm Heart of Africa, Malawi Sports Council board chair Jim Kalua made a surprise visit to the team hotel shortly before their final friendly in Lilongwe.
He delivered a glowing tribute to the club’s conduct during their stay.
Makepekepe wrapped up their tour with a friendly against MAFCO yesterday after earlier facing top-flight side Silver Strikers twice, but the biggest moment came before kick off when Kalua addressed the squad.
“I just had to squeeze out some time to rush here and meet you guys,” Kalua said as he greeted the team.
“It’s special that you chose Malawi for your preparations. You have been here for over a week and your professionalism stands out.
“You are a special club and we love you in a big way. As the Malawi Sports Council we welcome you with open arms and you should always feel comfortable being here.”
Kalua added:
“We know you have learnt a lot and we have also learnt a lot from you. That’s how beautiful sport is. We are happy to see you here.”
The Council boss handed the squad a special token of appreciation, a gesture that head of delegation Maxwell Mironga said spoke volumes about how CAPS United have carried themselves.
“We are very grateful to the Malawi Sports Council chairman Jim Kalua for this visit. It shows we have been recognised by the regulatory authority here.
“We have had a warm stay and this makes it even sweeter.”
Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Malawi Nancy Saungweme welcomed the team on arrival and praised them for strengthening sporting ties between the two countries.
Silver Strikers chief executive Patrick Chimimba has already revealed that the Malawian club are keen to explore a partnership with CAPS United, with talks now under consideration.
“This has been more than just a pre-season tour,” said Mironga.
“It has been a diplomatic mission that shows how powerful sport can be. When we arrived we had players with Malawian roots who had never been here meeting their relatives for the first time.
“That’s what football is supposed to do. We are extremely happy as CAPS United.”
Mathew Masinge