Flames get clearance
The Flames have been given a special clearance to camp in Saud Arabia in preparation for Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals despite a ban on flights to and from Malawi.
Saudi Arabia Ministry of Interior on Wednesday announced the suspension to and from seven countries, namely Malawi, Zambia, Madagascar, Angola, Seychelles, Mauritius and Comoros following new Covid-19 variant Omicron.
A statement from Saud Arabia government said only Saudis arriving directly or indirectly from the aforementioned countries are allowed to enter the country.
Saudi Gazette yesterday also reported that non-Saudis from Malawi will only be allowed into the country provided they spend 14 days in other countries.
However, the Flames have been given special clearance to be allowed in the country, according to Football Association of Malawi (FAM) president Walter Nyamilandu.
He said: “The Flames camp in Saudi Arabia is still on. We have been assured that we will be exempted from the restrictions.”
However, the condition that all the members of the squad should be vaccinated still stands.
“We are now working on the logistics so that the team can leave soon after Airtel Top 8 finals.”
The Saudi Arabia FA has offered to foot expenses for a delegation of 35, estimated to cost in excess of $100 000 (about K82.5 million).
Flames coach Meck Mwase said the camp is crucial as it will give the technical panel a chance to prepare thoroughly for the Afcon finals to be held in Cameroon from January 9 to February 22 2022.
Flames vice-captain John Banda thanked FAM for ensuring that Saudi Arabia FA hosts the Flames ahead of the Afcon finals.
But soccer analyst Charles Nyirenda said the camp will only be meaningful if they play friendly matches against strong opponents.
He said: “Many countries in Europe and Middle East are going on a lockdown. It will be futile if they camp there but end up not playing any matches due to the Covid-19 restriction.”
Malawi’s Flames are in Group B alongside Senegal, Guinea and fellow Cosafa member Zimbabwe.
