Ng’ambi, Nyirenda out of Chad game
As expected, injured Flames inspirational midfielder Robert Ng’ambi has been ruled out of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations second preliminary round, second leg against Chad in Nd’jamena this coming Friday.
Football Association of Malawi (FAM) general secretary Suzgo Nyirenda also confirmed that South Africa-based defender Harry Nyirenda has been ruled out as Black Leopards have refused to release him owing to their involvement in promotion and relegation play-offs.
Against all odds, Ng’ambi, whom doctors gave a minimum of three weeks to fully recover, was hoping to be fit for the return match having missed the first leg.
“By the time the game is played, Robert will still be in the process of recovery. So, he is not part of the squad. Leopards have also refused to release Harry [Nyirenda] for the match.
“As for Esau Kanyenda, we are still waiting for a report on the state of his injury,” he said.
Ng’ambi reported for camp carrying the injury he received in South Africa during Stars last league game against Ajax Cape Town three weeks ago. He is being treated by Beit Cure International Hospital in Blantyre.
“I wish the guys all the best. If they get an early goal and settle quickly in Chad, I have no doubt they will make it,” he explained.
Analysts feel Ng’ambi, who was also unable to feature in the 2-0 win over Chad at the giant stadium last week, could have improved the ball deliveries to strikers Atusaye Nyondo and Gabadinho Mhango.
With Ng’ambi out, Flames coach Young Chimodzi has Chimango Kayira and Joseph Kamwendo to deploy in the heart of the midfield.
Meanwhile, the Flames arrived in Tanzania’s capital Dar-es-Salaam on Saturday for tomorrow’s friendly match against the Taifa Stars in preparation for the Nd’jamena showdown.
The list of players that have travelled to Tanzania is as follows: Goalkeepers: Charles Swini, Richard Chipuwa and Vincent Gona; Defenders: Foster Namwela, Francis Mulimbika, Bashir Maunde, Limbikani Mzava, John Lanjesi and Moses Chavura (C); Midfielders: Frank and John Banda, Phillip Masiye, Chimango Kayira, Ndaziona Chatsalira, Joseph Kamwendo and Young Chimodzi Jnr; Strikers: Rodrick Gonani, Atusaye Nyondo, Robin Ngalande and Gabadinho Mhango.
