NBS Bank National Division League side, Mchinji Villa FC, are hoping to turn around their misfortunes in the league after roping in Flames legend, Joseph Kamwendo, as their new head coach.
The club made the decision to hire Kamwendo, who was recently head coach at CRECK Sporting Club, after suspending Eliya Phiri last month following a string of poor results. The team has failed to register a single win in six matches—losing to Mitundu Baptist, Namitete Zitha, and Bangwe All Stars while drawing against Baka City, Chilumba Barracks, and Chintheche United.
Currently, Villa sit 11th in the 12-team table with only three points from three draws and three defeats. Despite the poor start, team manager Yakobe Duwe expressed optimism that Kamwendo’s appointment will help the team improve both in the league and in cup competitions.
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“It is something we have been wishing for because we have a vision. As you know, having big names in football will help us do better in the league and in the FDH Bank Cup, where we have already progressed to the next round,” said Duwe.
He also confirmed that the club has no future plans with Phiri and is working to finalise outstanding matters before parting ways with him officially.
“His contract already ended, so what is left is to finalise some financial issues before he leaves. But as it stands, he is no longer part of us,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kamwendo, who signed a six-month contract, said he is happy to return to coaching and is especially proud to serve a team from his home district. He admitted it was a difficult decision, knowing some people would see it as a step down from the TNM Super League.
“It was a tough decision to make because I knew people would say I have stepped down, but I don’t mind what people are saying. Coaching has ups and downs. I am still young and I have time, so this will help me develop and grow in the game,” said Kamwendo.
Kamwendo began his coaching journey as an assistant at Mighty Wanderers before joining Bangwe All Stars and later CRECK Sporting Club, where he eventually became head coach before being suspended last month due to poor results.
He added: “The team already had goals for this season. I believe I can help them fulfill those. It is not a bad team despite the poor start. With teamwork and what little I know, we will do better.”
His first task will be leading the team when they host Jimmy Zakazaka’s FOMO FC on Saturday.
A decorated former midfielder, Kamwendo enjoyed a glittering playing career with stints at Orlando Pirates, TP Mazembe, and clubs in Belgium. Since retiring in 2018, he has transitioned into coaching and now holds a CAF B License, making him eligible to coach in both the Super League and the National Division League.
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