BENIN PREDICTS THE GAME AGAINST MALAWI TO BE A TOUGH ONE

Benin stars say the game against Malawi will be a tough one because the Flames are like a new book to the West Africans since the two sides have never played each other before.

The players made the remarks on Beninfootbal.com website, when asked how they were looking forward to the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Flames on July 19.

Striker Désiré Segbé Azankpo, who plays for Luxembourg’s Jeunesse, said he had no idea about the Flames.

“We do not really know the Malawi team, but we have a great coach and we prepare to qualify,” he said.

Belgium based Frédéric Gounongbé said they would need to be careful when playing Malawi.

“There are really no easy games,” he said.

Their French coach Didier Olle-Nicole also said he expects a tough game against Malawi.

“It will be a higher level in adversity,” he said.

Malawi made it to the next round on away goal rule after they drew 3-3 with Chad in two-legged qualifier.

Benin on the other hand beat Sao Tome 4-0 on aggregate to book a date with the Flames.

Meanwhile, FAM general secretary Suzgo Nyirenda also said they were spying on Benin to find out the team’s weaknesses and strengths.

“We are looking at the possibility of acquiring the DVD for their game against Sao Tome,” Nyirenda said.

The Flames are expected to pass through Kampala en route to Benin for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers first leg.

But before the Uganda friendly Flames play another strength testing match against Mozambique on July 6 during Independence Day celebrations.

The Flames are expected to go into camp on Sunday in preparation for the two international friendly games.

Nyirenda said the two games would give the technical panel the best preparation for the crucial away first leg qualifier against Les Écureuils.

The Flames will start their third round of the preliminary stage away to The Squirrels of Benin on weekend of July 19 with the technical panel facing a daunting task of making sure the Flames improve their away record.

The return leg will be played in Blantyre’s Kamuzu Stadium during the weekend of August 2.