No build up game for U-20
Under-20 coach Ernest Mtawali has cast his doubts on playing a strength-testing match ahead of Saturday’s Africa Youth Championship preliminary first leg game against the Young Zebras of Botswana.
Kamuzu Stadium will host the encounter from 2.30pm.
Already, the Junior Flames have not had enough time for preparations having assembled late due to government bureaucracy on funding.
Mtawali hinted that the Junior Flames will not even play a friendly game against any local team.
“As you are aware, we went into camp very late and under such circumstances, coupled with funding challenges, it was difficult to arrange an international friendly match.
“And, much as we would have loved to arrange a friendly game against a local team as an option, we have limited time and for now we will do with training games involving the 25 players in camp,” said Mtawali.
The Flames legend, however, said the situation is no cause for worry.
“Yes, you only do well after sound preparations, but we will have to do with what we can. We are playing the first leg at home and we have a game plan that we are working on,” he said.
The coach said they have added Mighty Wanderers FC midfielder Abraham Kamwendo to beef up the squad, replacing Boston Kabango who lost his father last week.
“As food for thought, I think in future we need to consider Super League players that have not played for the senior national team as long as they are within the age range because in so doing, we would also be preparing them for the senior team as the Under-23 national side rarely plays these days,” said Mtawali. He cited Silver Strikers star forward Chawanangwa Kaonga as one of the players who deserved consideration.
The Young Zebras were scheduled to arrive in the country later yesterday.
Meanwhile, FAM has said gate charges for the match will be as follows: K200 Open Stands; K500 MBC Stand; K1 000 (US$2.4) Covered Stands and K2 000 (US$5) VIP.
