Early team news: Mpinganjira gives updates on key players ahead of CAF return

Mighty Wanderers are set to make their long-awaited return to continental football when they host Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy Football Club at Bingu National Stadium on Sunday afternoon, marking their first CAF tournament appearance since 2018.

The Nomads last competed in CAF competition seven years ago, when they suffered elimination at the hands of Democratic Republic of Congo’s AS Vita Club. Now, as they prepare for this crucial continental clash, Head Coach Bob Mpinganjira has provided important updates on his squad’s availability.

Speaking at Saturday’s pre-match press conference, Mpinganjira revealed that Cameroonian international Sama Tanjong Thierry will undergo a late fitness assessment before a final decision is made on his involvement.

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The towering striker has been sidelined since sustaining an injury during the NBS Bank Charity Shield against Silver Strikers, a match that ended 2-2 with Sama contributing one of Wanderers’ goals. Despite being with the squad and participating in training sessions, he has yet to feature in any league matches this season.

“Sama is with the team, training with the team and we will have to see him tomorrow,” Mpinganjira explained during the briefing.

The coach confirmed that the squad will be without two important players for the continental fixture. Defender Chimwemwe Nkhoma and attacker Gaddie Chirwa have both been ruled out of the traveling party.

Chirwa’s absence is particularly significant, as the versatile attacker has been instrumental for the Nomads this season before picking up an injury against Civil Service United. His pace and creativity in the final third will be sorely missed.

“We have all the players available for selection apart from Gaddie Chirwa and Chimwemwe Nkhoma whom we haven’t travelled with,” Mpinganjira stated.

Analysis: Sama’s potential impact

The possible return of Sama Tanjong presents both opportunities and selection dilemmas for Mpinganjira. While the Cameroonian’s physical presence and aerial ability would undoubtedly strengthen Wanderers’ attacking options, his lack of competitive match time this season raises questions about his readiness for such a crucial fixture.

The coach’s cautious approach is understandable given the stakes involved. Starting a player who hasn’t featured in competitive action could prove risky, particularly in a match of this magnitude.

Mpinganjira’s attacking options have been bolstered by the mid-season acquisition of Muhammad Sulumba, adding depth to a forward line that also includes the experienced Clement Nyondo, Promise Kamwendo, and Blessings Mwalirino. This wealth of options means the coach can afford to be patient with Sama’s return.

With multiple attacking players vying for starting positions, the selection headache may actually work in Wanderers’ favor, providing tactical flexibility and the luxury of having quality options from the bench.