The MTN Super League entered week five with major shifts in the standings as Zanaco FC climbed to the top of the table after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nkana FC in Kitwe on Sunday. The Bankers maintained their unbeaten run, while Nkana’s struggles continued, leaving them in the relegation zone.
Zanaco Claim First Win in Kitwe Since 2022
Zanaco’s narrow triumph marked their first win at Nkana Stadium since 2022, when they edged Aba Red 3-2. Assistant coach Henry Banda praised his players’ resilience despite going a man down.
“It was a great game, it was a tough game. Playing against Nkana away from home is not easy, but credit has to go to the players; they did well from the first whistle up to the last whistle. We fought as a team, today it was not easy as we were one man down,” Banda told journalists.
The Bankers have now collected 11 points from three wins and two draws, a far better start than last season when they struggled for consistency. Banda stressed that the team would remain focused:
“We just have to remain calm and continue working hard because the league is a marathon. We have got a lot of games ahead of us, we just have to take each game as it comes.”
Nkana’s Nightmare Season Continues
For Nkana, the defeat deepened their woes as their only win of the season — against Green Buffaloes — was nullified after fielding an ineligible player, Nduna Zulu. This leaves them with just two draws and two losses from four official results. Aba Red now sit 17th in the standings, staring at relegation danger.
Head coach Mwenya Chipepo called for patience from fans and pledged to address the team’s tactical errors:
“We just have to be patient. We have seen where we are wrong as coaches, and we are going to work on the mistakes we are making.”
Napsa Stars Record First Win
Elsewhere, Napsa Stars secured their first win of the campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mines United. The result lifted them to 12th place, easing early relegation fears. Mines United, however, remain winless and now sit rock bottom.
Conclusion
Week five of the MTN Super League saw Zanaco surge to the summit, proving their credentials as early title contenders. Nkana’s crisis deepened, and with pressure mounting, their next fixtures could define their season. Meanwhile, Napsa’s first win will bring relief, while Mines United must find answers quickly if they are to avoid a long relegation battle.
