Mighty Mukuru Wanderers coach Alex Ngwira says despite yesterday’s 2-0 win over Mafco FC in an Airtel Top 8 quarter-final first leg, they are not yet in the comfort zone.
First half goals from Francis Mkonda and Vincent Nyangulu ensured that the Lali Lubani Road outfit has a spring in its step going into the second leg at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre.
However, in a post-match interview, the Nomads gaffer said the battle is far from over.
Said Ngwira: “The game has gone according to our plan which was to get early goals.
“But considering that our opponents control referees in terms of intimidation, we should have scored more.
“We would have been comfortable with a three or four goal margin. At their backyard, it will be a totally different game and I wouldn’t say we are in the comfort zone.”
The Wanderers coach also accused the Malawi Defence Force side of being “too physical” in their approach.
On his part, Mafco assistant coach Jimmy Mzunga said despite the loss, they can still turn the tables.
He said: “They [Wanderers] have performed well at home and we are confident of upsetting the tables in the second leg.
“We have all the hope that we can turn it around.”
The Nomads drew first blood as early as the third minute through Mkonda who connested home a well-curled free-kick from Stanley Sanudi into the left bottom corner.
The soldiers had a chance to level the scores when they were awarded a penalty after Nomads defender Miracle Gabeya had hanled in th box, but Mphatso Phillimon’s spot kick was kept out by Nomads goalkeeper Pilirani Mapira who was named man-of-the-match.
Wanderers doubled their lead in the 32nd minute when Nyangulu connected home crisp pass from Yamikani Chester.
In the opening quarter-final first leg on Saturday at the same venue, holders Nyasa Big Bullets thrashed Karonga United 7-0.
On Saturday 12 December Blue Eagles will host Dedza Dynamos at Nankhaka.
