ZESCO United Crowned ABSA Cup Champions After Thrilling Final Against Red Arrows
ZESCO United are the 2025 ABSA Cup champions, defeating Red Arrows 4-2 on penalties after a tightly contested 1-1 draw at full time. The victory sees Zega Mambo clinch a record-extending seventh ABSA Cup title, reaffirming their dominance in Zambia’s prestigious knockout competition.
Abraham Siankombo gave ZESCO the lead in the 28th minute with a composed finish following a well-worked attacking move. But Red Arrows found a way back into the game early in the second half, with Joseph Phiri leveling matters in the 53rd minute to force a dramatic conclusion.
Despite several chances in regulation time, neither side could find the winner—sending the match into the lottery of post-match penalties.
Penalty Drama: Malonga and Chamanga Miss as ZESCO Hold Their Nerve
In the shootout, ZESCO United converted four of their five kicks through Dennis Nya, Freddy Michael, Solomon Sakala, and Alex ‘Bazo’ Ng’onga. On the other hand, Red Arrows faltered, with experienced duo Michee Malonga and James Chamanga missing their efforts.
ZESCO held their nerve to clinch the shootout 4-2 and claim the K1,000,000 winners’ prize, while Red Arrows settled for K400,000 as runners-up.
Peter Musukuma Named Player of the Tournament
ZESCO United’s Peter Musukuma was named Player of the Tournament, capping off a fine individual campaign. The midfield dynamo was instrumental throughout the competition and put in a solid shift in the final to help steer his side to glory.
Coach Emmanuel Siwale, in his first major cup final in charge, praised his players’ composure under pressure and celebrated what he called a “historic and deserved victory.”
A Cup Final to Remember
This year’s ABSA Cup final lived up to the billing, showcasing intensity, quality, and drama from two of Zambia’s top clubs. For ZESCO United, this marks their seventh ABSA Cup win, a feat unmatched in the competition’s history.
Red Arrows, who came into the final as defending MTN Super League champions, will be disappointed to have missed out on a domestic double but can hold their heads high after a spirited display.
