Flames’ focus shifts to Senegal
After the razzmatazz that characterised the Malawi Flames 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe’s Warriors in a Group B Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) match on Friday, their focus is now switched to tomorrow’s showdown against Senegal.
Flames captain Limbikani Mzava and two-goal hero Frank ‘Gabadinho’ Mhango on Sunday said Friday’s win is now water under the bridge.
Said Mzava: “The hangover of that win is long gone. We have a big job ahead of us and that is what we are focussing on now.
“I know people are still talking about that win, but for us it is time to move on because we have a difficult and even more significant task ahead.
“That win gave us a chance to shape our destiny in as far as qualifying for the knockout stage is concerned and we have a job to accomplish that mission.”
The South Africa-based defender, who is the longest serving member of the squad, further said the players are determined to give their all.
Mzava, who is doubtful starter after pulling his muscles during the Zimbabwe match, said while the odds are highly tipped in Senegal’s favour, they are prepared to fight every inch of the way.
On his part, Mhango, who is the leading scorer in Group B with two goals, also said if they do not qualify for the knockout stages, “then surely the win over Zimbabwe will count for nothing”.
He said: “We need to push harder and we need to do better because the match against Senegal will determine our destiny.
“We are the underdogs and that suits us fine because the pressure is less. We have to continue from where we left against Zimbabwe and get a result that will take us through.
“They are a continental giant, but football is played on the pitch. We can surprise them.”
The Flames are third with three points from two matches, a point behind leaders Senegal and second-placed Guinea.
All the six group winners and their runners-up as well as the four best third-placed teams will qualify for the last 16.
Even if Malawi lose to Senegal and Zimbabwe beat Guinea in the last group matches, Zimbabwe will not sail through though due to their head-to-head with the Flames.
