By Rahim Abdul
Malawi’s Super League giants Silver Strikers, are facing uncertainty ahead of their crucial CAF Champions League tie against ASSM Elgeco Plus of Madagascar after their opponents failed to confirm which stadium will host the first-leg encounter.
The Malagasy club has not yet designated its official home ground, creating serious logistical and preparation challenges for the Central Bankers.
This comes despite CAF regulations requiring participating clubs to submit stadium details by August 19, 2025, to ensure proper planning and organization.
Silver Strikers are scheduled to face Elgeco Plus away on September 21, 2025, before hosting the return leg at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on September 26, 2025.
However with just weeks before the trip, the uncertainty surrounding the match venue has left the Malawian side frustrated and scrambling for last-minute travel arrangements.
Reports indicate that the game may eventually be staged in Mauritius, at the Coté d’Or National Sports Complex, due to Madagascar’s failure to meet CAF’s stadium requirements.
This possibility adds another layer of complexity for Silver Strikers who must now prepare for an international trip without clear travel details.
The development has raised concerns among Silver’s technical panel and management. Club officials worry that the lack of clarity will disrupt their pre-match preparations, especially regarding travel logistics, accommodation and acclimatization plans.
CAF rules state that failure to meet deadlines could result in penalties, including matches being relocated to neutral venues or in extreme cases, forfeiture but CAF has not yet issued a statement on the matter.
Silver Strikers will be representing Malawi as the country’s league champions and expectations are high for them to make a deep run in the tournament.
