Malawi Advances to Second Round of CHAN Playoffs After Defeating Comoros
The Malawi National Football Team has advanced to the second round of the CHAN playoffs after defeating Comoros 4-0 on aggregate. With a 2-0 victory in both matches, they await to face either South Africa or Egypt. Coach Kalisto Pasuwa made tactical changes that contributed to their success, and they now turn their attention to the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Namibia on March 20.
The Malawi National Football Team has successfully advanced to the second round of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) playoffs, defeating Comoros 4-0 on aggregate over two matches held at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe. With a 2-0 victory in both legs of the tie, Malawi looks forward to their next challenge, which could potentially involve facing either South Africa or Egypt, depending on the outcome of their scheduled encounter.
In preparation for this decisive match, Malawi’s coach, Kalisto Pasuwa, made one notable adjustment to the team from the previous match, substituting Wongani Lungu for Ephraim Kondowe. The team employed a 4-3-3 formation to bolster midfield balance, showcasing their strategic adaptability. Conversely, Comoros made two substitutions, introducing Ahmed Fadjidou and Corin Botomanga to their lineup.
Despite controlling the game and generating several corner opportunities, Malawi was unable to score in the first half, recording only one shot on target. Comoros, facing pressure, also struggled to breach Malawi’s defense, resulting in a goalless halftime. However, Malawi emerged from the break with renewed vigor and found the lead shortly after, with Lungu scoring a superb debut goal due to a Comoros defensive slip.
Malawi extended their lead shortly after with a powerful header from Binwell Katinji, capitalizing on a well-placed cross from MacDonald Lameck. Several more opportunities arose for Malawi, including a near second goal for Katinji thwarted by a fantastic save from Comoros’ goalkeeper. Pasuwa made tactical substitutions to refresh the team and maintain their offensive pressure, which paid off as they remained solid defensively throughout the second half.
Pasuwa expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, stating, “Well done to Malawi and all of us for reaching the second round of the playoffs. It wasn’t easy in the first half—we were jittery—but in the second half, we spoke to the players, and we got the goals.” Looking ahead, the focus shifts to the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, with Malawi set to face Namibia on March 20.
In summary, the Malawi National Football Team demonstrated resilience and skill in their progression to the second round of the CHAN playoffs, defeating Comoros decisively. Their strategic formation changes and tactical adjustments paid off, allowing them to capitalize on scoring opportunities in the second half. As they prepare for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, their performance against Namibia will be critical in continuing their momentum in competitive football.
Original Source: malawi24.com
