The Flames yesterday beat Mauritius 2-0 in a dead rubber Hollywood betsCosafa Cup Group B encounter at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa.

Both teams were already out of the regional showpiece going into this match and Flames coach Mario Marinica rested the bulk of his senior players, including Precious Sambani, Frank Gabadinho Mhango, captain John ‘CJ’ Banda and Khuda Muyaba who all started in  the first two matches against Lesotho and e-Swatini.

Idana tries to beat a Mauritius player during the match

Nyasa Big Bullets goalkeeper Clever Mkungula retained the position after an impressive debut against e-Swatini  so did right back Stanley Sanudi of Mighty Mukuru Wanderers, who captained the side.

Mafco centre back Paul Ndhlovu and Civil Service United’s Kelvin Kadzinje were also maintained. Another Mafco player  Daniel Chimbalanga got his debut.

Bullets blossoming midfielder Patrick Mwaungulu also started and partnered his teammate Chimwemwe Idana and Tanzania-based Peter Banda in midfield.

Stein Davie of Silver Strikers partnered veteran Chiukepo Msowoya of  Wanderers upfront.

The Flames dominated the first half in which they had 53 percent possession against Mauritius’ 47.

To underline their dominance, Malawi had seven attempts on goal against none for Mauritius. They also had three shots on target while Mauritius had zero.

After a goalless first half, Malawi drew first blood in the 52nd minute.

A free kick by Peter Banda, who was named man-of-the-match, hit the wall and from the rebound, Sanudi struck a first time thunderous shot into the roof of the net.

Both teams engaged an extra gear after this goal and created a number of chances, but failed to make them count.

Flames sealed their victory with a minute to full time through Micium Mhone.

E-Swatini’s Sihlangu have qualified for the semi-final from the group after beating Lesotho 2-0 in a decider. They finished with seven points, a point ahead of Lesotho.

Sihlangu  will face guest side Senegal’s Teranga Lions.

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