Malawi’s FMB Bank U-20 Cup kicks off on March 2, draw conducted

The K4 million First Merchant Bank (FMB) Under-20 Football Cup will kick-off on March 2, 2013 in all the three regions of the country with an expectation to unearth hidden talent from the youths.

This was disclosed by vice general secretary for National Youth Football Committee Thokozani Chimbali on Friday, February 22, 2013 during the cup draw, which was conducted at BAT Ground in the commercial city of Malawi, Blantyre.

Chimbali said the cup is expected is to help in unearthing hidden talent of boys in districts as the cup will be competed with teams from Dedza, Zomba, Nkhata-bay, Mzuzu, Lilongwe and Blantyre.

“It is our aim that at the end of this tournament we should identify youngsters who can be incorporated in our Junior Flames. We have many hidden talent in our districts and with the FMB Cup we are hopeful that it will help in exposing many talent,” said Chimbali.

The FMB Bank Cup will unearth hidden talent….says Thokozani Chimbali

Chimbali also clarified on why they have introduced the cup despite FMB National Regional Youth Leagues.

“ The money which we were supposed to use last year for FMB Bank League is the one we have used for this cup since last year we failed to launch the league due to the death of President
Bingu wa Mutharika.”

The Cup, which is expected to wrap-up on April 6, 2013 will comprise of 16 teams from each region on a knock-out basis before the quarter finals.

Chimbali said for the winner on the district level will receive K100, 000 with the loosing finalists receiving K50, 000 while for the regional champions they will smile all the way to the bank to pocket
K200, 000.

Man of the match on regional level will be assured of getting K15, 000.

However, teams from the Southern region can as well start preparations following Friday’s draw which were Griffin Youngsters being paired with Mtopwa Super Pirates while Namiwawa will date Golden Boys.

The Following is the FMB Bank Under-20 Draw:

1. Griffin Youngsters vs Mtopwa Super Pirates.
2. Sporting Leopards vs Bangwe Babies.
3. Namiwawa vs Golden Boys.
4. Acuadi vs Kangaroo.
5. Wanderers Youth vs Malani.
6. Mpanje vs St Andrews.
7. Izi Izo vs Nswalamba FC.
8. Chitawira Rangers vs Black Spiders.
QUARTER FINALS
A.Game 8 vs Game 7
B.Game 2 vs Game 3.
C.Game 6 vs Game 5.
D.Game 1 vs Game 4.
SEMI-FINALS
-Game C VS B
-Game A VS D.