By: Kassim Kajosolo
Mighty Wanderers FC Head Coach, Bob Mpinganjira, remains optimistic despite identifying defensive shortcomings in his team’s 3-2 victory over Tigers FC at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday.
The Nomads clinched a narrow win in an entertaining Super League encounter, thanks to a strong first-half performance. Francisco Madinga opened the scoring in the 8th minute, converting a fine pass from Wisdom Mpinganjira, who went on to net a brace in the 16th and 28th minutes efforts that earned him the Man of the Match accolade.
However, the momentum shifted in the second half, allowing Tigers to claw back with two goals, exposing frailties in Wanderers’ defence.
Speaking after the match, Coach Mpinganjira acknowledged the lapses at the back.
“We had a grand game, especially in the first half, scoring three goals, but our intensity dropped in the second half where we allowed our opponents to score twice. We are aware of the gaps, particularly in defence, and will work to address these issues when we return to training.”
Commenting on his tactical changes, the Wanderers gaffer said the substitutions were made to maintain momentum and were not necessarily a response to the goals conceded.
One of the notable changes was the introduction of goalkeeper Chancy Mtete, replacing Richard Chipuwa. Mpinganjira clarified that this move had been pre-planned.
“You might have noted that Chancy started warming up before we conceded. He is a promising player and we want to integrate him gradually into the team. Whether or not we conceded, he was always going to get some game time,” he explained.
With this victory, the Lali Lubani Boys ascended to the top of the 16-team log table with six points from two games. While their performance raised eyebrows defensively, the win was enough to keep their perfect start intact.
Attention now shifts to the Airtel Top 8, as the Nomads prepare to host Karonga United in the tournament’s first quarterfinal this coming weekend.
As Mpinganjira puts it, the mission continues, and optimism remains high.