Banega makes his debut for Muaithe SC in pre-season friendly

Flames’ defensive midfielder, Lloyd Banega Aaron, was immediately handed a starting role for his new club, Muaithe Sporting Club, in a friendly match against Bosnia’s Villiz Mostar SC on Wednesday.

Banega, who recently joined Muaithe SC from FCB Nyasa Big Bullets in a deal reportedly worth around MK200 million, wasted no time getting on the pitch. Muaithe SC is currently in Bosnia for pre-season training ahead of their new season, which kicks off on August 19.

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The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with goals for Muaithe SC scored by Alberto Logi and Abdel Salam. According to the club’s social media platforms, coach Alexander Viselinovic used many players to build fitness and allow them to gel ahead of the upcoming season in Qatar.

“The technical team… ensured to engage as many players as possible… to increase physical and fitness, and give everyone a chance to harmonize inside the field, as part of the continuous preparations,” the club stated.

This move makes Banega the second player from Bullets to secure an international transfer this season, following Yankho Singo’s move to South Africa’s Golden Arrows for approximately MK78 million.

Since joining FCB Nyasa Big Bullets just last season, Banega quickly became a key player, making 54 appearances in all competitions. His consistent performances and ability to control the midfield were crucial to Bullets’ recent triumph in the Airtel Top 8 Cup.

Banega’s career has been on a sharp upward curve since 2023. Previously a less-utilized player at Civil Service United, his standout performances at the 2023 COSAFA Cup put him on the map, leading to his emergence as a regular starter and, ultimately, this significant international move.