Malawi tennis team in Africa Junior Championship semis

The Malawi lawn tennis team has reached the semi-finals of Africa Junior Tennis Championship currently underway in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The trio of Precious Lipenga, Daniel Phiri and Junior Mkandawire won their first game against Lesotho 2-1 on Monday, before losing 1-2 to Madagascar on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, they beat Namibia 2-1 in the third game.

Eight countries—Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana, Madagascar, Namibia,  Lesotho, Malawi and Angola— are taking part.

Malawi is in Group B alongside with Lesotho, Namibia and Madagascar while Group A comprises hosts Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana and Angola.

Malawi and Madagascar have qualified for the semi-finals from Group B while Group A South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Malawi played South Africa yesterday at press time and on Friday the team faces Zimbabwe.

National coach Henry Mtuta said he believes his boys have potential to reach the final.

“We are doing very good. The fact that we have reached this stage demonstrates how good the boys are. They now have self belief that they can go all the way. No name will frighten them,” he said in an interview from Zimbabwe.

On his part, Mkandawire was upbeat of progressing.

“There are good tennis players here but we just need to be focused and play our game and not be swayed by our opponents. It’s gonna be tough but we can do it,” said Mkandawire.