January 14, (THEWILL) – Malawi came from behind to beat Zimbabwe 2-1 on Friday, giving the Flames a real chance to advance out of their group for the first time in the history of the continental showpiece. Gabadinho Mhango scored both goals as Malawi rallied after trailing to win 2-1.
With 38 minutes played, Ishmael Wadi’s thunderous header looped over Ernest Kakhobwe in the Malawi net, seemingly ensuring Zimbabwe would go into the break leading.
However, soon after, Meck Mwase’s men equalised, with Mhango turning in Francisco Madinga’s magnificent left-wing cross. It gave the Malawians extra momentum that they harnessed and carried into the break.
Malawi finished the turnaround shortly after the hour mark. Mhango sent the ball to Madinga on the flank and kept running, which allowed him to take advantage of Teenage Hadebe’s weak defending and with a flick-on, he guided an exquisite finish over the onrushing Petros Mhari.
Malawi now has three points from two games, one behind top-placed Guinea and Senegal, with a good chance of at least securing one of the four best third-placed teams.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, is yet to earn a single point after Matchday two and will most likely not make it beyond the group stage.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
