Mafco are Presidential Cup champs
Mafco FC made history on Sunday by winning the Presidential Cup for the first time after beating Silver Strikers 10-9 through penalty shoot-outs at Civo Stadium.
The game had ended 0-0 in regulation time. Besides the trophy, Mafco went home K10 million (about $25 000) richer.
The penalties capped a thrilling game with Mafco showing huge reserve of character, resilience and ability to dominate after the break.
Both teams had chances but could not score in normal time.
Chawanangwa Kaonga and Bernard Namangwiyo were the villians for Silver as their penalties were tamed by Mafco goalkeeper Frank Kasiyano.
Peter Pindani, Chikondi Likwemba, Ndaziona Chatsalira, Young Chimodzi Jnr, Green Harawa, Lucky Malata, Frank Banda and Wonderful German converted theirs.
Mafco’s Jimmy Mzunga, Gift Mhone, Oswald Mkagula, Emmanuel Chipeta, Paul Ndhlovu, Richard Mbulu, Callisto Kalinda were all on target except Zasha Nong’oneza whose shot was saved.
“It is an exciting day for Malawi Defence Force (MDF). We deserved to win this cup. In fact, we would have loved if it were an all MDF final, but we were robbed of that,” said MDF Deputy Commander (operations) Lt General John Msonthi Jnr.
Silver general secretary Mike Tembo congratulated Mafco for the win.
“They are a good side. They were really prepared for the match. We salute them. I have to thank our supporters for maintaining discipline despite the loss,” said Tembo.
Minister of Youth and Sports Enoch Chihana, Sports Council executive secretary George Jana and FAM president Walter Nyamilandu graced the finals.
