By Twink Jones Gadama
Malawi Under 20 National Team Coach Bob Mpinganjira has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to win the upcoming COSAFA Youth Championship and secure a spot in the Under 20 Africa Cup of Nations.
The team departed for Maputo, Mozambique on Monday morning, ahead of the tournament’s kickoff on Thursday.
Mpinganjira’s optimism stems from the team’s successful preparations, which have equipped them to tackle the challenge.
“The preparations went well, and we are very hopeful that we are going to have a very good tournament. We have never won the tournament, but we hope to this year,” he stated.
The coach emphasized the importance of this tournament to his players, urging them to seize the opportunity.
“We have talked to the players about the importance of this tournament and that we have to go compete and win the Cup. I am very sure that every player is geared up, and we will get good results,” he assured.
Malawi is grouped alongside South Africa, Comoros, and Lesotho in Group C.
Their opening match is against South Africa on September 27, followed by clashes with Comoros on September 30 and Lesotho on October 1.
This year’s COSAFA U20 Championship serves as a regional qualifier for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, with the two finalists advancing to the continental showpiece.
The final 20-man squad boasts a mix of experienced players and fresh talent.
Notable inclusions are:
– Goalkeepers Amos Sande (Ekhaya) and Innocent Kamwambi (Lube FC)
– Defenders Washali Jaziya (Silver Strikers) and Kondwani Tebulo (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets)
– Midfielders Precious Kwalenga (Mighty Tigers) and Francis Malikebu (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets RSV)
– Strikers Masambiro Kalua (Mighty Tigers) and Benson Chifundo Makawa (Kamuzu Barracks)
Malawi’s quest for Cosafa glory begins against South Africa, a team they have historically struggled against.
However, Mpinganjira’s charges are determined to rewrite history.
The Cosafa Youth Championship has become a vital platform for Malawian youth to showcase their skills and attract international attention.
