Roan United Set for Copperbelt Derby Against Nkana in 2025 ABSA Cup Last 16
Historic Clash as Roan United Face Nkana in ABSA Cup Showdown
The stage is set for an exciting Copperbelt derby as Roan United take on Nkana FC in the last 16 of the 2025 ABSA Cup. The match, scheduled for the weekend of April 5-6, will mark the first competitive meeting between the two sides since Roan’s relegation from the FAZ Super League in 2014.
Despite being underdogs, Roan coach Sacthmo Chakawa remains grounded, insisting that the club’s main priority is earning promotion from Copperbelt FAZ Division 1 rather than focusing on the cup competition.
“We can do well against Nkana because it is football, but our focus is about winning promotion. This Cup is for the big boys, so we can’t waste our energy—that’s my honest opinion,” Chakawa said.
Roan United’s Journey to the Last 16
Roan United booked their place in the last 16 after a 1-0 win over Young Nkwazi, courtesy of a Robby Chifyalwa goal in the 19th minute. The Luanshya-based side will now turn their attention to a much tougher task against Nkana FC, one of Zambia’s most successful clubs.
Meanwhile, Nkana received a direct entry into the last 16 and will be looking to make a strong start in their ABSA Cup campaign.
A Rivalry Renewed: Roan vs. Nkana
While Roan and Nkana have faced off in friendly matches over the years, this will be their first official clash in over a decade. The fixture carries significant regional pride, with both Luanshya and Kitwe deeply connected through their Copperbelt football heritage.
“It doesn’t matter because we are also doing well. It doesn’t matter which opponents we face; it’s all about winning,” Chakawa added.
However, despite the coach’s modest approach, this match is undeniably one of the highlights of the ABSA Cup second round, drawing attention from football fans across Zambia.
ABSA Cup Round of 16 Fixtures (April 5-6, 2025)
- Barts FC vs. Zesco United
- Solwezi Academy vs. Konkola Blades
- Roan United vs. Nkana
- Kansanshi Dynamos vs. Green Buffaloes
- Mpulungu Harbour vs. Red Arrows
- Prison Leopards vs. Green Eagles
- Makeni All Stars vs. Kabwe Warriors
- Air Power vs. Power Dynamos
Roan United will be aiming to cause an upset against the 13-time Zambian champions, while Nkana will be eager to avoid a cup shock as they chase ABSA Cup glory.
