Mabedi impressed with performance in debut match

Flames caretaker coach Patrick Mabedi is confident that his charges will impress given more time together.

He said this after playing a one a draw against Mozambique in a friendly match at the Zimpeto stadium yesterday.

FCB Nyasa Big Bullets hot striker Lanjesi Nkhoma scored his first goal in Flames attire at 74 minutes, cancelling the hosts goal which was scored by Telinho at 56 minutes.

Mabedi’s first 11 saw Brighton Munthali in goals while Stanley Sanudi, Dennis Chembezi, Nickson Mwase and Alick Lungu starting in defense.

As John Banda and Chimwemwe Idana were entrusted in the midfield position, Yamikani Chester, Chawanangwa Kaonga, Richard Mbulu and Lanjesi Nkhoma started in the attacking positions.

After playing a goalless draw in the first half, Mabedi made three changes at 58 minutes, bringing in Gaddie Chirwa, Chifundo Mphasi and Lovd Nialiwa who replaced Richard Mbulu, Chawanangwa Kawonga and Chimwemwe Idana.

Ten minutes later, Malawi made a double substitution; introducing Lloyd Banega Aaron and Chikumbutso Salima for Yamikani Chester and John Banda.

After the match the Flames interim coach said; “we were better in terms of tactical and am happy with the progress shown by my boys.”

He added that; “the boys created more chances, their decision making and work rate was just fantastic and I believe with more exposure they will be phenomenal. Being the first match, I am very impressed.”

Flames’ next assignment is an AFCON qualifier against Ethiopia on Tuesday at the same Zimpeto stadium in Mozambique.