AFCON 2019: Flames Defender Ruled Out Of Cameroon Tie

Malawi national team captain Limbikani Mzava has been ruled out of the back to back 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Cameroon due to an ankle injury.

Mzava got injured while playing for his South African Premier Soccer League side Lamontville Golden Arrows on Sunday.

Flames manager James Sangala has confirmed the news through a statement and revealed Mzava will be replaced by Nyasa Big Bullets defender Yamikani Fodya.

“Mzava will not be part of the traveling squad. We just received communication from his club that he is unfit after twisting his ankle, therefore he needs rest,” read part of the statement.

The defender joins Gerald Phiri, Gastin Simkonda and Rightious Banda on the treatment table.

The team now has six foreign-based players namely Jabulani Linje who plays professional football in Japan, midfielders Frank Banda, John Banda, Charles Swini and striker Richard Mbulu who ply their trade in Mozambique as well as South Africa based Gabadinho Mhango.

Malawi are scheduled to leave on Monday afternoon for Cameroon via Ethiopia ahead of the first encounter on Friday before hosting Cameroon at the Kamuzu Stadium on Tuesday.