Wanderers Eliminated from Airtel Top 8, Coach Eyes League Redemption

What began as a promising campaign for Malawi’s Mighty Wanderers has taken an early hit, as the team was knocked out in the quarterfinals of the Airtel Top 8 Cup.

Despite securing a 1-0 home victory in the first leg, Wanderers were eliminated after suffering a 2-0 defeat away to Karonga United—losing the tie 2-1 on aggregate.

However, head coach Bob Mpinganjira remains optimistic. He believes his squad has the potential to bounce back and challenge for other trophies this season. Speaking after the match, he urged fans to keep supporting the team.

“We played well and created chances, but we just couldn’t convert them,” said Mpinganjira. “The team is in good shape, and we’ll go back, fix our mistakes, and move forward.”

The coach, who has set ambitious goals of winning the TNM Super League and at least two domestic cups, called on supporters not to lose faith.

“We need that backing from our supporters. They shouldn’t lose heart. The team is still strong, and we’ll keep fighting to bring home silverware,” he added.

Wanderers currently sit on six points in the TNM Super League after winning their first two matches. Their arch-rivals, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, have played three and won all, advancing to the Airtel Top 8 semifinals after a 1-0 win over Creck Sporting Club.

Karonga United, who advanced thanks to an Alfred Chizinga brace, will face Big Bullets in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, two more quarterfinal clashes remain in the Airtel Top 8: Moyale Barracks will host Silver Strikers, and Civil Service United will take on Mzuzu City Hammers.