AFCON 2015: Malawi Eye Home Win as Algeria Visit Blantyre
Malawi will host Algeria on Saturday in Blantyre as part of the third round of qualifiers for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, with the Flames determined to defend home turf and boost their qualification hopes.
After claiming a 3-2 victory over Ethiopia in their previous outing, the Flames are keen to maintain their momentum when they welcome Group B leaders Algeria to Kamuzu Stadium. For head coach Young Chimodzi, protecting home ground is central to Malawi’s qualification strategy.
“We’ve designated our home matches as must-wins if we are to stand any chance of qualifying,” Chimodzi said. “Winning away has proven difficult, so we mustn’t falter at home.”
Malawi currently sit third in Group B with three points, behind Algeria (six points) and Mali (also three), separated on goal difference. The top two in each group, along with the best third-placed side across all groups, will advance to the finals in Morocco.
Saturday’s clash represents a major challenge for the hosts. Algeria have been in fine form since the arrival of French coach Christian Gourcuff, registering back-to-back wins against Ethiopia (2-1) and Mali (1-0). The Fennecs now look to maintain their perfect record with another positive result in Blantyre.
Despite the challenge ahead, the Flames remain optimistic. Malawi’s last encounter with Algeria in the AFCON finals dates back to 2010, where they stunned the North African side with a 3-0 victory in Angola. That historic win remains a source of belief for the current squad.
The reverse fixture in Blida on October 15 will follow just four days after Saturday’s match, making the home leg crucial for Malawi’s hopes of gathering points before facing Algeria again on the road.
Chimodzi is likely to place faith in a youthful but energetic squad, one that he believes can rise to the occasion with the backing of a passionate home crowd.
“We are confident playing at Kamuzu Stadium,” he added. “The supporters give us strength. We know Algeria are a very strong team, but we are not here to give up before the match even begins.”
A positive result on Saturday could see Malawi move into the top two of the group and put pressure on their rivals ahead of the final qualifying rounds.
