Flames cautioned not to underrating Ethiopia

Football pundits in Malawi have admonished the Flames against underestimating their opponents, Ethiopia as the two teams set to lock horns on Sunday at Bingu National Stadium in 2023 Afcon Qualifiers.

This follows announcement made by the Ethiopia Football Federation that their squad has been dominated by local players with only one foreign- based player, Shemeles Bekele who plays for the Egyptian side El Gouna.

Felix Ngamanya-Sapao who is also the certified intermediary in football players’ transfers, said Ethiopia has one of the strongest Leagues in Africa, it is ,therefore, a big mistake to underrate them.

“After the Botola League of Morocco, Egyptian League is the second strongest in Africa. Ethiopia just played in a Friendly and drew 1-1. They have stronger local league than our Super League, as such, we should not underestimate them,” said Ngamanya-Sapao.

Ngamanya-Sapao added that playing at home could fuel Flames’ players.

He said “They (Ethiopia) were at Afcon just like Flames this year and showed good promise in a tough group. They are a good team, but Flames should win at home. However, It will be tight.”

Another Football analyst, Kelvin Moyo also said Ethiopia has a well-run and organised League.

Moyo said, “Currently, they have one of the best professional run Leagues on the Continent with the coming of Multi-Choice as sponsors which is attracting a lot of foreign players.

“So having one foreign-based player does not make them lesser side.”

However, Flames Head Of Technical Panel Mario Marian Marinica said his charges are more than ready to grill the Walias on Sunday.

Ethiopia is expected to jet in Malawi today in the afternoon through Kamuzu International Airport and they will be using Mighty Wanderers’ Bus.

The Flames will take on Ethiopia on Sunday at Bingu National Stadium before flying off to Guinea for their second match on June 9.