Malawi Under-17 boys football national team leave it late to salvage a point in their Cosafa Under-17 Boys Championship Group A opener at the UJ AW Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa Group opener when they equalised in the 90th minute.
Clifford Chisale was the hero of the day as he rescued Malawi from the jaws of defeat in the Council for Southern Africa Football Association (Cosafa) tournament which also acts as Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers next year in Ivory Coast.
The goal cancelled out Mozambique’s lead taken in the 9th minute through Kell Lino.
After recess, Malawi came a reorganised force, charging at their opponents in a desperate effort to avoid.
The match was highly and closely contested but Mozambique were too physical with hard tackles on Malawi.
In an interview, Malawi coach Enos Chatama commended his charges for their fighting spirit.
“It’s unfortunate that we conceded an early goal which affected our plans because it caused us to play under pressure. But I am happy that the players showed a spirit of never say die,” he said.
Commentators have also applauded for the victory saying: “It’s just unfortunate that Malawi gave away the goal. But the players are skilled and can do wonders.”
Lija Ishmael said: “Brilliant display and they were so resilient denying that loss, fighting spirit and discipline is fundamental in the game of football, congrats boys.”
Malawi qualified for the Afcon Under-17 in 2019, but won the competition once in 2001 when the country hosted the tournament.
