'Not the size of the dog that matters' says Pofera after Malawi win in COSAFA U-20 Championship

Photo courtesy of Millias Pofera’s Facebook

Malawi Under-20 national team coach Millias Pofera struck a philosophical tone after his side's 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe on Friday in Namibia.

The Young Flames got their COSAFA Under-20 Championship campaign off to a dream start by overcoming Young Warriors in Group A at Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek.

Mwisho Mhango scored the opener for the Young Flames in the first half, before Tadiwa Chakuchichi levelled matters for Zimbabwe just before the hour mark.

However, Malawi sealed the win when Zimbabwe defender Garie Chibika turned Mhango’s cross into his own net.

Reacting at full-time, Pofera attributed the win to the massive support his team received in Lilongwe, including from Malawi's state president, Dr Lazarus Chakwera.

“I have to thank the people of Malawi. They have been behind us and even the government, including the President of the Malawi nation. Before coming here, we had a send-off and he told us: ‘Go and deliver!'" said Pofera.

The former Civo United mentor went on to explain why starting games on the front foot has been key.

“It is not the size of the dog but what is inside the dog [that matters] and we have done it. In Namibia, we want to leave a statement. We are going to take each and every game as it comes. The boys have played by our instructions even before we came here.”