A first half of end-to-end action without clear-cut chances has ended goalless between Malawi and Eswatini in South Africa.

The two teams have since gone on break from this Group B match of the Hollywoodbets Cosafa Cup.

Malawi finished strongly with skipper John Banda nearly scoring from a cutback which missed the post by a whisker and earlier Khuda Myaba had his free header smothered.

Eswatini too had their moments with Kwakhe Thwala forcing the Flames goalkeeper Clever Mkungula into a diving fingertip save of a long range effort before Ndzinisa wasted a glorious opportunity from a free header.

The match for the group is taking place at King Zwelithini Stadium.

Ahead of the match, Malawi coach Mario Marinica made wholesale changes to the squad.

Goalkeeper Ernest Kakhobwe, defender Sankhani Mkandawire and striker Stenie Davie made way for Clever Mkungula, Phillip Ndhlovu and Kelvin Kadzinje.

The three players earned their debuts in the colours of the Flames who are smarting from a 2-1 loss to Lesotho on Wednesday.

Eswatini started the competition with a 3-0 win over Mauritius who are taking on Lesotho later today at the same venue.

Only the overall best team based on most number of points collected in the group will qualify for the quarterfinals.

Starting XI:

Malawi: Clever Mkungula, Stanley Sanudi, Precious Sambani, Paul Ndhlovu, Miciam Mhone, Chimwemwe Idana, Gabadinho Mhango, Kelvin Kadzinje, Peter Banda, John Banda (c), Khuda Myaba

Eswatini:  Sandanezwe, Dlamini, Kwakhe Thwala, Sifiso Matse, Fanelo Mamba, Lindo Mkhonto, Sabelo Ndzinisa, Mzwandile Mabelesa, Mkhwanazi, Mkhonta, N Dlamini