Bola Yapa Zed Sports Desk | 20 November 2025
NAPSA Stars return to action this Friday as Week 12 of the MTN Super League kicks off, with head coach Sipho Mumbi urging his side to “get back to winning ways” after their disappointing 2-0 loss to FC Leopards in Week 11. As they prepare to host an improving Nkwazi side, the Pensioners face both pressure and motivation in equal measure made tougher by yet another injury setback for midfielder Kenneth Kasanga. With Nkwazi finally claiming their first win of the season before the international break, the stakes are even higher at Reiz Arena.
NAPSA Stars Target Redemption After Leopards Defeat
NAPSA Stars sit in a challenging position heading into Week 12 after a result that caught many by surprise. Their 2-0 defeat away to FC Leopards halted their momentum and highlighted areas needing improvement as they push to climb higher in the Super League standings. Coach Sipho Mumbi, however, believes the international break provided the perfect window to mentally and tactically reset the squad.
“We thank God we had a week to psych the players to get back to the winning ways. The boys look set and ready for Friday’s game,” Mumbi said.
Despite the setback, the team has shown resilience under Mumbi this season, and the technical bench remains confident that the response against Nkwazi will be positive.
Nkwazi Arrive with Confidence After First Win of the Season
While NAPSA seeks stability, Nkwazi travels with renewed belief after finally recording their first victory of the season defeating Mines United 2-1. That win brought relief to the coaching staff and lifted morale within the squad, making them a more dangerous opponent than their early-season struggles might suggest.
The two sides share a competitive history. In the last 22 meetings, NAPSA Stars have dominated with 10 wins, while Nkwazi have managed six, and six matches have ended in draws. Nkwazi’s recent upturn in form will give them confidence, but history favors the hosts.
A spirited performance from Nkwazi could complicate NAPSA’s attempt to bounce back, especially if the Pensioners fail to control the game’s tempo early on.
Kasanga Injured Again — Mumbi Confirms One-Loss Absentee List
Coach Mumbi confirmed that influential midfielder Kenneth Kasanga has picked up another injury, just after returning ahead of the Leopards match. His absence will be felt in midfield, given his work rate, ball recovery, and ability to break lines attributes that would have been crucial against Nkwazi.
“Kasanga got an injury the week before last in the game against FC Leopards, but other than that everybody is ready,” Mumbi said.
Despite the setback, NAPSA Stars have the rest of their squad available, and Mumbi insists the team is mentally prepared.
He also issued a strong message to supporters:
“It hasn’t been easy for all of us, but we pray that they continue supporting the team. We always strive to win every game.”
Match Details
Conclusion
NAPSA Stars enter Week 12 with something to prove, determined to show that their setback against FC Leopards was only a temporary stumble. With the squad motivated and the coach calling for unity, the Pensioners will be eager to respond at home. Nkwazi, meanwhile, come armed with confidence after ending their winless streak, making this fixture more competitive than league form alone suggests.
Whether NAPSA reclaims momentum or Nkwazi continues their resurgence, Friday’s clash promises intensity, commitment, and tactical intrigue as the MTN Super League continues to heat up.
