ZESCO United have accepted full responsibility after being docked points for fielding ineligible players in their goalless draw against Konkola Blades over the weekend in the MTN Super League.
According to a statement released by Club Chief Executive Officer Ponga Liwewe, the nine-time MTN Super League champions admitted their mistake and confirmed they have taken “full and unconditional responsibility” for the administrative error.
ZESCO United Docked Points and Fined
The incident occurred on Saturday when ZESCO United named 20 ineligible players in their squad for the match against Konkola Blades. As a result, the Zambian Premier League awarded Blades all three points and a 3-0 scoreline.
In addition, the Ndola giants have been slapped with a K10,000 fine for failing to register their players within the required timeframe. This decision means Blades benefit massively in their battle for survival, while ZESCO suffer a blow to their title hopes.
Big Blow in the MTN Super League Race
For a club of ZESCO United’s stature, such an error is a rare and costly one. The dropped points not only weaken their pursuit of the MTN Super League crown but also give rivals a boost in the standings. With defending champions Red Arrows, Power Dynamos, and Kabwe Warriors all pushing at the top, the race is intensifying, and ZESCO cannot afford any further slip-ups — on or off the pitch.
Ponga Liwewe Issues Apology
CEO Ponga Liwewe’s statement emphasized the club’s accountability and commitment to ensuring such mistakes never happen again. While the error came from administrative oversight, ZESCO United have promised to strengthen internal processes to safeguard the integrity of their operations.
What This Means for Konkola Blades
For Konkola Blades, the decision is a massive boost. The Chililabombwe-based side have been fighting hard to stay above the relegation zone, and the awarded three points could prove decisive in their survival campaign. The 3-0 victory on paper adds confidence to a side that has shown resilience in recent weeks.
Conclusion
This administrative setback highlights the fine margins in the MTN Super League title race and the importance of discipline both on and off the pitch. ZESCO United’s swift acceptance of responsibility will help them move forward, but their rivals will surely look to capitalize as the season heats up.
FULL MEDIA STATEMENT : ZAMBIAN PREMIER LEAGUE DECISION ON WEEK ONE MATCH BETWEEN ZESCO UNITED FC AND KONKOLA BLADES FC
ZESCO United Football Club acknowledges the Zambian Premier League’s (ZPL) ruling concerning our week one fixture against Konkola Blades FC, which was played on 16 August 2025 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
The club acknowledges an administrative lapse that led to the fielding of ineligible players due to an incomplete team registration process. We take full and unconditional responsibility for this error.
This lapse is a clear breach of set standards, which our league managers, sponsors, fans and supporters expect of us. Effective immediately, the club has instituted remedial action and are implementing corrective measures to prevent any recurrence.
We extend our sincerest apologies to our players, our dedicated supporters, our partners, the Zambian Premier League, and the wider football community.
Our commitment to the integrity of the game and to restoring faith in our operations is absolute.
Issued by:
ZESCO United Football Club
Ponga Liwewe
Chief Executive Officer
20 August 2025, Ndola
