CAFCL: Malawi’s minister drums up support for Silver Strikers – Yanga game

Malawi’s Minister of State Alfred Gangata has urged the country’s fans to unite in throwing their full weight behind Silver Strikers, as they host Young Africans Sports Club (Yanga SC) this weekend.

The football administrator-turned-politician made the call via a statement ahead of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round between the Malawi champions and their counterparts from Tanzania.

Gangata described the match as more than a football duel, citing the economic benefits Lilongwe stands to gain on Saturday.

The owner of the now disbanded Masters Security FC said the match stands to benefit other sectors of the economy such as tourism.

“I wish to call upon all soccer-loving Malawians to come out in large numbers this weekend and support our very own team ya m’mudzi, Silver Strikers, as they face Young Africans in this exciting CAF fixture,” he explained.

“This is more than just a football match. It is an opportunity to showcase the passion, unity, and hospitality of our great nation. When we fill the stands, we are not only supporting our team but also promoting sports tourism, which has the power to stimulate our economy.”

Are Yanga bringing supporters to Malawi?

Gangata said he had learnt that eight buses of Yanga supporters were travelling to Lilongwe, signaling the importance of the game.

“I understand that Yanga will be travelling with over eight buses of supporters, a clear demonstration of how football can move people, create business opportunities for Malawians, and bring much-needed foreign exchange into our economy. From hotels and restaurants and local vendors, everyone stands to benefit,” the minister added.

“Let’s rally behind the Bankers as they carry our flag high. Their victory will be a win for Malawi and our football development.”

The delegation for Yanga arrived in Lilongwe on Thursday for the Champions League assignment. The Tanzanian giants will host the return leg on October 28 in Dar es Salaam.

Silver advanced to the next qualifying stage of the continental league after seeing off Elgeco PLUS from Madagascar via an away goal rule after settling for a 1-1 aggregate score.

In the opposite camp, Yanga dismissed Wiliete FC from Angola 2-0 on aggregate.

⚽ Follow Pan-Africa Football across platforms for real-time news and stories.