Mozambique got revenge against Malawi for a defeat earlier in FIFA World Cup qualifying between the two COSAFA nations as the Mambas scored early in the second half on their way to a 1-0 victory in Cotonou, Benin on Wednesday. An unfortunate own goal from Limbikani Mzava was all Mozambique needed to hold off the slumping Flames and overtake them for third place in Group D.
The Mambas showed a bit more attacking initiative with nothing but pride and avoiding last place in the group to play for. In the 15th minute, winger Witi received a pass and did excellently to turn by a Malawian defender before ripping a shot off the crossbar with keeper Ernest Kakhobwe clearly beaten. The warning signs continued to mount for Malawi when a 28th minute opportunity saw Witi initiate a clever passing sequence that resulted in a shooting chance for Manuel Kambala, but Sheriff Tirapol defender Charles Petro stepped in with a brave block.
Mozambique’s breakthrough came through a moment of good fortune in the 51st minute. A free kick was lifted into the Malawian penalty area and while running towards his goal, Mzava attempted to chest the ball back to Kakhobwe. However, the goalkeeper was anticipating the ball going beyond the defender and could not react to the pass, leaving the ball to bounce into the empty net for an own goal.
The goal was the difference maker as Malawi struggled to create much in the way of offense. The closest the Flames came to equalizing was in the 86th minute when some good work from substitute Yamikani Chester on the left side of the Mozambican penalty area saw Chester’s cross go towards Richard Mbulu at the edge of the six-yard box, but the Baroka FC striker could not get a firm touch on the ball and Mambas keeper Ernan Siluane smothered any chance for a leveler.
Highlights of the match are in the link below.
