2025 TNM Super League: Opening Weekend Delivers Drama, Goals & Surprise Results
The 2025 TNM Super League exploded into life over the weekend of April 5–6, with thrilling matchups across the country setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested season. From historic debuts and derby drama to commanding wins and last-gasp goals, Matchday 1 treated Malawian football fans to a full spectrum of action. With all eyes on the new season, every team stepped onto the pitch eager to make an early statement.
Bullets Edge Defending Champions in Lilongwe Derby
At Bingu National Stadium, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets sent a strong message by defeating defending champions Silver Strikers 1-0. The only goal came in the 29th minute when Wongani Lungu intercepted a loose ball and set up Babatunde Adepoju for a simple tap-in.
Babatunde, who was named Man of the Match, expressed his delight after the game:
“It was a tough game, but as Bullets, we are very happy that we secured maximum points. Our primary objective was to collect all three points, and we’re proud to have started the league on a high note.”
The win marks a solid start for the Bullets as they look to reclaim the title they narrowly lost last season.
Ekhaya FC Celebrate Dream Debut in Blantyre
Newcomers Ekhaya FC couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the top flight, as they stunned Mighty Tigers 2-0 at Kamuzu Stadium. Lovemore Mbeta opened the scoring in the 40th minute after a clever assist from Emmanuel Saviel, and the debutants sealed the victory deep into stoppage time through Saviel himself.
Ekhaya’s tactical shifts around the 35th and 78th minutes, including key substitutions by coach Enos Chatama, proved pivotal. Mbeta earned Man of the Match honors after netting his team’s historic first goal in the TNM Super League.
MAFCO Capitalize on Early Gift in Dwangwa
In Dwangwa, MAFCO FC kicked off their season with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Chitipa United at Chitowe Stadium. An indirect free-kick awarded for a goalkeeper handling error in the 10th minute was converted by Yohane Malunga, who was later named Man of the Match.
Chitipa controlled much of the second half but failed to convert their chances. Tensions flared late in the game, including a yellow card for a MAFCO player after a bicycle kick attempt by Chitipa’s captain led to accidental contact.
Karonga United Stun Civil Service United
On Sunday, Karonga United pulled off a 1-0 away win over Civil Service United at Nankhaka Stadium. Goalkeeper Maclean Mwale stole the show with a stellar performance, earning Man of the Match honors. Allen Chihana scored the match-winner in the 47th minute after a brilliant delivery from Chizinga.
Mighty Wanderers Outclass Blue Eagles
Back at Kamuzu Stadium, Mighty Wanderers delivered a statement win with a 3-1 victory over Blue Eagles. Goals from Emmanuel Nyirenda (33’) and Promise Kamwendo (64’) put the Nomads in firm control. Despite a late goal from James Stambuli in the 87th minute, it was too little, too late for the visitors.
Kamuzu Barracks Dominate in Mzuzu
Kamuzu Barracks proved too strong for Mzuzu City Hammers, winning 3-1 at Mzuzu Stadium. Zeliati Nkhoma was the standout performer, netting twice in the first half (25’, 36’). Samson Olatubsan pulled one back for the Hammers, but Kamuzu Barracks held firm to begin their campaign on the right foot.
Dedza Dynamos Humble Creck Sporting
At Champion Stadium, Dedza Dynamos made a strong early-season statement with a resounding 4-1 win over Creck Sporting. George Chaomba, Agney Msowoya, Chifunilo Mpinganjira, and Khumbo Banda all found the back of the net, while Wisdom Mpinganjira scored the lone consolation for Creck.
Moyale Barracks Edge Songwe Border in Close Contest
Finally, at Songwe Stadium, Moyale Barracks secured a narrow 1-0 win against Songwe Border FC thanks to a 40th-minute goal by Chimwemwe Kashoti. The disciplined performance helped Moyale begin the season on a positive note.
Conclusion
The opening weekend of the 2025 TNM Super League delivered across all fronts—goals, intensity, upsets, and breakout performances. From Babatunde’s winner in the derby to Ekhaya’s dream debut, and Karonga’s big away result, each fixture showcased the depth and drama Malawian football has to offer. With the tone now set, fans can look forward to a captivating season ahead.
