KAMPALA, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- The Malawi Flames jetted into Uganda on Friday with high hopes ahead of a 2021 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier tie with Uganda Cranes on Sunday.
Malawi who beat South Sudan 1-0 in the first group game on Wednesday are top of Group B, while Uganda and Burkina Faso who drew goalless are second with a point each.
"We know it is not easy to face Uganda Cranes in front of their fans. But we are determined to continue with the good start in the campaign," Malawi's head coach Meck Mwase told Xinhua in an interview.
Striker Gabadinho Mhango who scored the lone goal in the win against South Sudan said he is optimistic he will continue with the scoring run.
"We are here to collect points and we shall fight till the last whistle," added Mhango.
Uganda's head coach Jonathan Mckinstry said their priority is to win the first game at home.
"I am glad the boys battled well to get a draw away in Burkina Faso, but now we must go all out and get a comfortable win in front of our fans," said Mckinstry.
Mckinstry, who is also a former head coach of Rwanda and Sierra Leone, called on Ugandans to come in big numbers and support the team as it battles with Malawi.
"Come and cheer the team to victory because the power of the 12th man is important," added Mckinstry.
Uganda Cranes are chasing an opportunity to qualify for their third straight AFCON competition after featuring at the 2017 and 2019 editions in Gabon and Egypt respectively.
The 2021 AFCON will be hosted by Cameroon with 24 teams talking part. Algeria are the defending champions. Enditem
