Malawi have no injury worries ahead of Ghana clash

By Patrick Akoto

Malawi have no injury worries going into Saturday’s reverse fixture of the 2013 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Ghana.

The Flames must win by a 3-0 margin to book themselves a ticket to the finals to be staged in South Africa next year.

Seven of their foreign-based players who earned call-up for the game including veteran striker Essau Kanyenda, Robin Ngalande, goalkeeper Simpex Nthal, Zico Nkanda, Harry Nyireda, Atusaye Nyondo and Roberto Ng’ambi have all joined the rest of their colleagues in camp.

Tough-talking coach Kinnah Phiri says the team is in good shape to beat the Black Stars this weekend.

“We have a very fit team. Minor knocks here and there because players always want to fight for positions in the team but they are all battle ready,” Phiri told Kumasi-based Fox FM

“We have a lot of young boys, very energetic and so we are ready to face the Black Stars on Saturday.

“It is not going to be easy to qualify to the Nations Cup but we are prepared to fight. In football you don’t take thing for granted and you don’t want to make mistakes.

“Teams have come  from 3 goals down to win and so it is not impossible for us to beat them.”

Sudanese referee Khalid Abdul Rahman will officiate the match and will be assisted by compatriots Waleed Ahmedali and Idam Hamid Mohame.

Hassam Ada Mahmed will be the fourth official. The match commissioner will be Ian McLeod from South Africa.