Malawi Qualifies for Beach Soccer AFCON Despite Coach's Concerns
This marks Malawi's second consecutive qualification for the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Egypt.
MANGOCHI, Malawi— Malawi's beach soccer team secured a spot in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations despite a shaky performance in their home leg against Burundi on Saturday, writes Pemphero Musowa.
The team qualified based on their aggregate 15-14 victory, having won the first leg 7-6 in Bujumbura.
The return match at Sunbird Livingstonia ended in an 8-8 draw.
Coach Willy Kumilambe expressed mixed feelings about the result. "We have made it through. I am happy with the results but I am not happy with the way we played," he said post-match. "We always lead, but concede silly goals."
Malawi squandered an early 2-0 lead in the first quarter, allowing Burundi to mount a comeback. Kumilambe praised his midfield and strikers but highlighted defensive concerns.
"We need to work with the defence to avoid conceding silly goals," the coach added.
This marks Malawi's second consecutive qualification for the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Egypt.