There were goals and some superb individual performances in the men’s and women’s Under-20 football competitions which kicked-off at the Region 5 Games in Windhoek, Namibia on Friday.

There were two games each in Group A in both the men and women’s tournaments as the players began their campaign to what they hope will be the gold medal come the finals on July 13.

Malawi top Group A after the first round of fixtures in the men’s competition as they defeated Zimbabwe 2-1 at the Hage Geingob Stadium. Mwisho Mhango put the Young Flames ahead in the first half, but Tadiwa Chakuchichi equalised for Zimbabwe just before the hour-mark.

Malawi hit the front again when Mhango unselfishly tried to cross the ball when through on goal and it deflected into the net off Zimbabwe defender Garie Chibika for an unfortunate own goal.