On the 9th of July, 2023, in the COSAFA Cup competition, Malawi squared off against Seychelles at 16:00 EEST, resulting in a comprehensive victory for the Malawi team with a 2-0 scoreline. Much of the game's outcome can be traced back to key statistical trends and performance indicators during crucial phases of the match.

The intensity of the match is vividly encapsulated in the card statistics. Obviously, Seychelles had discipline problems, accumulating three yellow cards, two of which were in the first half. These yellow cards, one as early as the 9th minute, might have influenced Seychelles' aggression and their ability to contest more balls.

Meanwhile, the home team, Malawi, played with more control and discipline, backed by the fact they received only a single yellow card much later into the second half. Although they had a similar number of fouls (11) as Seychelles, the fewer cards suggest better timing and execution of tackles and challenges.

Significantly, the second half proved a game-changer for Malawi. Two crucial goals within ten minutes of each other — one at 55:12 and the other at 64:19 — shifted the momentum in Malawi's favour. Especially notable is that these goals occurred following Seychelles' third yellow card, suggesting that Malawi might have exploited a weakness or lack of momentum in their opponent following this caution.

Moreover, they efficiently utilized their corner kicks, having three throughout the match. Seychelles, on the other hand, could not capitalize on their two corners, hinting at a more solid defence by Malawi and perhaps a lack of a strong game plan from the Seychelles' side in set-piece situations.

Although offsides were nearly negligible in this game, with Malawi being called offside twice and Seychelles none, a difference in approach is noticeable. Malawi seemed to be employing a more aggressive forward line, testing the discipline of Seychelles' defense - a strategy that ended up paying off, even with a couple of offsides.

In conclusion, discipline and effective utilization of set pieces turned out to be significant factors in Malawi's victory. Their ability to keep calm under pressure, combined with strategic precision, afforded them well in locking down this match. Seychelles, meanwhile, will need to rethink their approach to discipline and defending set-pieces in future games to avoid similar results.

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