Swaziland keep fingers crossed

Second-placed Swaziland have an outside qualification chance in the two best runners-up slots across the groups whereas Malawi are already eliminated. ‘Sihlangu’ have eight points, three shy of leaders

Swazi coach Harris Bulunga is optimistic that his charges can beat Malawi and keep fingers crossed on the outcome of the other group matches.

“It is a game that has an element of history in it, because should we win we can for the first time and qualify for the finals in Gabon,” Bulunga said.

Bulunga has seasoned attacker Tony Tsabedze and in-form striker Felix Badenhorst to rely on in this match against the Flames, who have lost both home qualifiers by identical 2-1 margins to Zimbabwe and

Making a return to the Swazi fold is Siboniso Malambe.

Despite this being an academic match, Malawi interim coach Nsanzurwimo Ramadhan and captain Limbikani Mzava say they are desperate for a win.

“I am satisfied with the level of fitness of all the players, the attitude and performance has been impressive. We have worked on the tactics but I must say that I will not have excuses if we lose because I have everything at my disposal and things are looking good,” Ramadhan said.

Ramadhan has an experienced squad comprising the likes of goalkeeper Charles Swini, Mzava, Chiukepo Msowoya and Peter Wadabwa with only former captain Joseph Kamwendo missing.

Elsewhere in Conakry, Guinea will host Zimbabwe in the other