Flames play away against Botswana today in Gaborone in a crucial elimination match for Qatar 2022 World Cup qualification.
Botswana are ranked 147 on Fifa rankings released in July while Malawi are ranked 126. But in reality, the rankings don’t tell the true story about the strengths of the two sides.
I would say Botswana are stronger than Malawi at the moment. I am saying this because Botswana reached the Cosafa 2019 finals in which they narrowly lost 0-1 to Zambia. Of course, Fifa does not recognise the Cosafa tournament, but never underrate this tournament.
And considering that Botswana are playing at home, it means they have an added advantage. This is why Malawi should not underrate Botswana. Malawi should astutely defend while keeping in mind that an away goal could be advantageous to us.
I have a lot of confidence in the way Malawi played at Cosafa and if they can transfer that form to Botswana we can scorch the Zebras. With the likes of Yamikani Chester, Gabadinho Mhango and Richard Mbulu, we have enough attacking impetus.
Kenya versus Uganda is another interesting international friendly on the continent as both teams were at the Afcon 2019. Both teams will tap from that experience to give fans a good treat.
Meanwhile, I would like to congratulate Madagascar for being the second country to boycott matches against South Africa after Zambia.
It is the least football can do to encourage African brotherhood and to stop senseless attacks on foreigners.
On the international scene, fans will be treated to Euro qualifiers featuring England v Bulgaria, Serbia v Portugal among some of the notable matches today as the Premier League, Serie A and Primera Liga and other leagues are on the bye this weekend in Europe.
