By Rahim Abdul
Mighty Wanderers’ assistant coach Macdonald Mtetemera has acknowledged that the team must fix several key areas if they are to perform strongly in the 2026/27 season.
His remarks follow a disappointing result that revealed deeper tactical concerns within the squad.
Wanderers lost 4-2 on penalties to Goshen City Dedza Dynamos in the 2026 Premier Bet Sapitwa 4 Bonanza after a goalless draw in regulation time at Mulanje Park on Saturday. Despite the tight scoreline, the performance exposed clear weaknesses in attack.
The match lacked sharpness in front of goal, with both sides failing to score in 90 minutes. However, Wanderers looked more disjointed, especially when trying to connect midfield play with their attacking line.
In the penalty shootout, Blessings Singini and Clement Nyondo missed their efforts, putting Wanderers at a disadvantage. Although Lameck Mithi and Blessings Mwalilino converted, it was not enough to turn the result around.
Dedza Dynamos were more composed from the spot, with Christopher Phiri, Alex Orotomal, Marco Chiwaya and George Mboma all scoring, while Precious Kwalenga missed but did not affect the final outcome.
Mtetemera highlighted the lack of coordination between midfielders and forwards as the main problem. This gap made it difficult for the team to create clear scoring opportunities.
From a tactical perspective, Wanderers struggled to build attacks effectively, often relying on long balls instead of structured play. This made their approach predictable and easier to defend against.
The result also points to a bigger issue of failing to control games under pressure. Even in a goalless match, Wanderers did not show enough authority to dictate play.
Looking ahead, Mtetemera said he plans to make changes in the squad for the third place playoff against Red Lions. This could see new players given a chance to prove themselves.
Such rotation may help the technical panel assess combinations that can improve the team’s balance, especially between midfield and attack.
Although the Bonanza is not part of the league, it has exposed areas that need urgent attention before the new season begins.
