adminNoel Munzabwa in LOBAMBA, Swaziland
Swaziland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1) 2
Malawi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (2)2
SWAZILAND twice fought back to retain their lead in 2017 Nations Cup qualifiers Group L in this four-goal thriller at Somhlolo National Stadium yesterday.
Former CAPS United forward, Gerald Phiri, struck an eighth minute opener for the Flames but Felix Badenhorst levelled six minutes later.
The Flames restored the lead in the 22nd minute with John Banda taking advantage of Sihlangu’s poor defensive work.
The home team returned from the break a more purposeful side with captain Tony Tsabedze ably assisted by Mthunzi Mkhontfo, Njabulo Ndlovu and Xolani Sibandze breaching the visitors’ back-line at will.
The Harries Bulunga-coached side were duly rewarded on the hour mark with Sifiso Mabila latching on one such methodical Tsabedze build-up to level matters.
With luck on their side Swaziland could have marched to a home victory with Tsabedze hitting the woodwork before Sibandze skied his effort from the rebound in the 81st minute.
Malawi quickly recovered from the onslaught and almost snatched a win at the end. Flames coach Enerst Mtawali hailed Sihlangu’s strength and never-say-die-spirit.
“They are not an easy opponent and that is what competition is all about. We hope to bounce back in the next matches,” said Mtawali.
Malawi meet Guinea in back-to-back matches in March next year while Sihlangu date the Warriors at Somhlolo on March 23 before travelling to Harare.
Latest Log Standing
P W D L F A Pts
Swaziland 2 1 1 0 4 3 4
Zimbabwe 2 1 1 0 3 2 4
Malawi 2 1 1 0 3 4 1
Guinea 2 0 1 1 2 3 1
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