In a dramatic twist of events, Football Association of Malawi has announced that strikers Chiukepo Msowoya and Victor Nyirenda have been ruled out of next month’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations final qualification first round against Ghana’s Black Stars.
Flames coach Kinnah Phiri has since recalled South Africa-based forward Jimmy Zakazaka as their replacement.
FAM chief executive officer Suzgo Nyirenda confirmed the development Wednesday afternoon.
“We had anticipated that Chiukepo and Victor would join the squad, but due to other unforeseen circumstances, it appears they won’t make it,†said Nyirenda.
Chiukepo is reported to be finalising the process of terminating his contract with top South African club Orlando Pirates.
Zakazaka, who finished as last season’s second top scorer in the South African National First Division (NFD) was the notable surprise exclusion on Kinnah’s initial list of foreign-based players for the Ghana game.
Other notable names that have been left out include veterans Esau Kanyenda and Russell Mwafulirwa as well as Mozambique-based Zico Mkanda.
Tawonga Chimodzi has also not been included.
