Moyale comeback stuns Blue Eagles in Airtel Top 8
The decisive second leg is scheduled to be played at Nankhaka in Lilongwe on October 29, 2023.
RUMPHI, Malawi — Moyale Barracks FC displayed resilience as they clawed back from a goal down to secure a draw against Blue Eagles in the first leg of the Airtel Top8 quarter-final clash, held at Rumphi Stadium on Saturday, writes Victor Musongole.
Blue Eagles seized the lead just 27 minutes into the first half when Gilbert Chirwa capitalized on a loose ball from Macdonald Lameck inside the box.
The Moyale defenders failed to clear the ball, allowing Chirwa to slot home the opener.
However, Moyale's Captain Gasten Simkonda responded seven minutes later with a powerful header, connecting a well-placed corner kick from Brown Magaga.
The game was marked by its physicality, leading to injuries for four players: Moyale's Gasten Simkonda and Innocent Bottoman, and Blue Eagles' Jacob Robert and Maxwell Gustavo, who were unable to finish the match.
Reflecting on the match, Moyale Barracks coach Victor Chingoka described it as tough and attributed the draw to a lack of composure and the condition of the playing surface.
He said, "We beat them in a league game at their home, so they came at us hard. Although we managed to equalize, we lacked composure, especially upfront. But we remain hopeful that we can score and progress."
Blue Eagles' assistant Coach Christopher Sibale expressed his satisfaction with his players' performance.
"It was a good game; we scored early, which shows that our team was the better side. We have hope of winning the second leg and progressing to the semifinals, maybe even clinching this cup," Sibale commented.
Macdonald Lameck of Blue Eagles was voted the player of the match.
The decisive second leg is scheduled to be played at Nankhaka in Lilongwe on October 29, 2023.
Mighty Mukuru Wanderers are the current cup holders, having secured victory in the competition last year.