Flames coach expresses need for caution

Flames interim coach Meke Mwase says the team should exercise caution in the return leg first round of the 2020 Championship of African Nations (Chan) against e-Swatini (formerly Swaziland).

Malawi were held to a goalless draw by e-Swatini in the first leg in Manzini on Saturday and the return leg is slated for May 11 at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre.

“We will have home ground advantage, but we will need to take caution because anything can happen in football,” he said.

Nevertheless, Mwase said he was happy that his charges did not concede a goal, “but it was also disappointing not to score”.

He said: “e-Swatini were quick on the ball, especially in midfield where they had one industrious player calling the shots, but I should commend our defence for standing firm.

“Our goalkeeper also did a splendid job. We also had chances but unfortunately, we could not utilise them.”

The caretaker Flames coach also noted that the Flames lack natural wingers.

“We have improvised for so long, we need to identify natural wingers that can cross the balls into the box,” he said.

His e-Swatini counterpart Costa Papic hailed the Flames as a good side.

“They [Malawi] play compact football and they were physically ready for this match. From the way they played, they wanted to win this match.

“They were not defending like most teams do when playing away and it will not be easy in the return match. But I believe in my boys and we will see what happens,” he said in a voice recording provided by FAM.

Flames team manager James Sangala said the Flames might regroup this Sunday for the return fixture.