Forest Rangers Football Club have underlined their promotion ambitions in the 2025/26 ZPL National League season after securing the signature of current league top scorer Nicholas Chipoya from Trident FC. The prolific striker joins the Ndola-based side on a three-year contract, adding much-needed attacking quality as Fole Malembe push for a return to the MTN Super League.
The move comes at a critical stage of the season, with Forest Rangers looking to close the gap on the teams above them and strengthen their challenge for a top-four finish.
A Proven Goal Scorer Changes Allegiance
Nicholas Chipoya has been one of the standout performers in the National League this season, scoring nine goals for Trident FC and leading the league’s scoring charts. His consistent performances in front of goal made him one of the most sought-after attackers in the division, prompting Forest Rangers to move decisively.
Chipoya leaves Trident FC sitting fourth on the table with 33 points, just one point ahead of Forest Rangers, highlighting how competitive the promotion race has become as the league heads into the second half of the campaign.
League Context and Promotion Implications
Forest Rangers are currently sixth on the National League table with 32 points after 19 matches, firmly within touching distance of the promotion places. With National League leaders Makeni All Stars setting the pace on 42 points, the gap remains manageable, but consistency and squad depth will be crucial.
By signing Chipoya, Forest Rangers are not only strengthening their squad but also weakening a direct rival in Trident FC. The transfer could prove decisive in the battle for promotion, particularly in matches where fine margins separate wins from dropped points.
Why Chipoya Fits Forest Rangers’ Ambitions
Forest Rangers believe Chipoya’s goal-scoring instinct, discipline, and experience at National League level make him an ideal fit for their long-term project. His arrival gives the technical bench additional attacking options while easing the pressure on existing forwards as fixtures become more demanding.
With the league table tightly packed behind Makeni All Stars, Forest Rangers see this signing as a statement of intent aimed at sustaining momentum and mounting a serious push towards the MTN Super League.
Conclusion
The signing of Nicholas Chipoya represents a calculated and timely move by Forest Rangers as they intensify their promotion charge. Bringing in the National League’s top scorer while sitting just one point behind Trident FC reflects the club’s ambition and belief in their squad.
As the season progresses, Chipoya’s goals could be the difference-maker as Forest Rangers seek to close the gap on the leaders and reclaim their place among Zambia’s elite.
