By Aubrey Sumbuleta BBC Sport, Blantyre

Malawi hope to spring a win on Nigeria

Malawi national team coach Allan Gillet says the Flames could become a force to be reckoned with in Africa.

Gillet told BBC Sport his main task as manager is to ensure Malawi qualifies for the 2004 Cup of Nations in Tunisia.

It currently tops group one, which includes Nigeria's Super Eagles.

The Flames have not been at an African Nations Cup since the 1984 tournament in Ivory Coast.

"A football coach's job is always a pressure situation and the trick is you don't get pressure get to you.

"I will make decisions that will be better for the Malawi national team," Gillet said.

On the forthcoming Nations Cup match against Nigeria, Gillet said the team is getting into shape for the encounter.

"Malawi have a lot of hungry players and passionate supporters.

"If we play our lungs out, we can cause this super nation a big problem," he said.

The tactician said if he is given the needed support, the Flames will put up a very good display against Nigeria.

"We will be going onto the pitch confident and not fearful of what is going to happen."

Gillet is currently on a four-month contract and is keen to get a long term deal.