COSAFA U-20 Championship: Malawi’s physical approach affected Zimbabwe – Sibanda

Zimbabwe U20 head coach Thulani Sibanda attributed his side’s 2-1 loss to Malawi on Friday to the opponents’ physical style of play.

However, Sibanda said he wasn’t worried, confident the Young Warriors would bounce back from the setback.

“It was a good game. We were playing a team that is a bit more physical, but we created more realistic chances than they did,” Sibanda told COSAFA media.

“They did have a better share of possession, but maybe their physicality contributed. But I think we did well. We just have to correct a few things we did not do right, maybe our conversion rate, and marking in transitions.”

The Young Flames defeated Zimbabwe at Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek in Group A. Mwisho Mhango struck Young Flames’ opener in the first half, before Tadiwa Chakuchichi levelled matters for Zimbabwe just before the hour mark.

Malawi regained the lead when Mhango’s cross was deflected into the net by Zimbabwe defender Garie Chibika for an own goal.

SATURDAY’S FIXTURES

Group B – UNAM Stadium

Eswatini vs Botswana (KO 12:00 pm; 10:00 a.m. GMT)

South Africa vs Zambia (KO 3:00 pm; 1:00 p.m. GMT)

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