Malawi began their preparations for the Cosafa Cup semi-final against Zambia in fine style with a convincing 3-1 victory over English Division Two side Stockport County.

South Africa-based captain John Maduka opened the scoring for the Flames on 28 minutes, and they doubled their lead shortly after half-time thanks to a goal from Victor Phiri.

Stockport then pulled one back from the penalty spot after Kevin Ellison was fouled in the area.

Ricky Lambert duly converted - his first goal for the English side.

Stockport then went close again, as Ellison hit the ball over the bar when he should have scored.

Performance

Malawi took full advantage and Heston Munthali pounced to secure a morale-boosting win.

The game was watched by the country's sports minister Moses Dossi, who said he felt the team played well.

But he refused to comment on whether the side would have the ability to do the same to Zambia in the Cosafa Cup semi.

"The match is going to be critical and we cannot be saying anything because our rivals may seriously prepare for us," Dossi said.

"We want to give them a surprise and shock," he added.

The match was watched by hundreds of people, including some football club agents who confirmed were there to try and poach some players for professional football in England.