ZPL National League Week 27 Fixtures: Promotion and Relegation Battles Heat Up
As the ZPL National League enters Week 27, the stakes are higher than ever, with teams battling for promotion to the MTN Super League and others fighting to avoid relegation. Konkola Blades and Kansanshi Dynamos are in a tight race for the top spot, while Chipata United, Leopards Hill, and Chambishi are desperately seeking points to stay in the league. Every result this weekend could significantly impact the standings. Here’s a detailed analysis of the upcoming fixtures and what’s at stake for each team.
Saturday, 8th March 2025
Kafue Celtic vs. Ndola United | Lusaka Independence Stadium | 13:00 hrs
Kafue Celtic (16th, 23 pts) faces a crucial game as they try to escape the relegation zone. A win could help them move out of danger, while a loss would put their survival hopes in jeopardy. Ndola United (13th, 30 pts) is not completely safe either, and securing three points would ease any relegation worries. This match could go either way, making it a high-pressure encounter.
Young Green Buffaloes vs. Leopards Hill | Lusaka Independence Stadium | 15:00 hrs
Young GBFC (14th, 27 pts) is looking to distance themselves from the bottom three, while Leopards Hill (17th, 23 pts) desperately needs a win to stay alive in the relegation battle. A draw wouldn’t benefit either side much, so expect an attacking game as both teams fight for survival.
Trident vs. Mpulungu Harbour | Sentinel Ground | 15:00 hrs
This is a mid-table clash with both teams looking to secure a top-six finish. Trident (6th, 38 pts) will aim to keep their position, while Mpulungu Harbour (7th, 36 pts) can overtake them with a victory. Both sides will want to finish strong, making this a competitive fixture.
Aguila Stars vs. Mines United | REIZ Arena | 15:00 hrs
Mines United (3rd, 44 pts) is still in contention for a top-three finish and needs a win to maintain their advantage. Aguila Stars (9th, 33 pts) could play the role of spoilers and complicate Mines United’s ambitions. This match is crucial in shaping the top of the table.
Chambishi vs. Konkola Blades | Chambishi Stadium | 15:00 hrs
A classic top vs. bottom encounter. Chambishi (15th, 26 pts) is struggling to survive, while Konkola Blades (1st, 58 pts) can edge closer to securing promotion with another victory. A loss for Chambishi could push them deeper into the relegation zone, while a win for Konkola would strengthen their lead at the top.
Sunday, 9th March 2025
Chirundu United vs. Kansanshi Dynamos | Edwin Imboela Stadium | 15:00 hrs
Kansanshi Dynamos (2nd, 54 pts) must win to keep their promotion hopes alive as they chase league leaders Konkola Blades. Chirundu United (10th, 32 pts) is in mid-table but will look to make an impact by challenging one of the league’s top teams. A slip-up from Kansanshi could be costly in the title race.
Riverplate vs. Prison Leopards | Lusaka Independence Stadium | 15:00 hrs
A crucial top-five battle between Riverplate (4th, 43 pts) and Prison Leopards (5th, 41 pts). The winner will strengthen their top-four position, while the loser risks dropping behind. Both teams have been consistent this season, making this a must-watch fixture.
Chipata United vs. Kitwe United | Nationality Stadium | 15:00 hrs
Chipata United (18th, 20 pts) is in last place and needs a miracle to survive relegation. A loss here could seal their fate, while a win might keep their slim hopes alive. Kitwe United (12th, 30 pts) is not entirely safe and will look to secure three points to avoid getting dragged into the relegation battle.
Kafue Eagles vs. Jumulo | Khosa Stadium | 15:00 hrs
A mid-table clash where Kafue Eagles (11th, 30 pts) and Jumulo (8th, 34 pts) will be fighting for a strong finish to the season. Both teams are looking to secure a top-half position, making this an exciting game with attacking football expected.
What’s at Stake This Weekend?
🔹 Promotion Race: Konkola Blades and Kansanshi Dynamos must keep winning to secure their Super League spots. Any dropped points could change the standings.
🔹 Top-Four Battle: Mines United, Riverplate, and Prison Leopards are in a heated race for a top-four finish. A win or loss this weekend could be the difference.
🔹 Relegation Survival: Chipata United, Leopards Hill, Kafue Celtic, and Chambishi are all in danger of going down. Every point matters as they fight to avoid relegation.
🔹 Potential Upsets: Mid-table teams like Chirundu United, Aguila Stars, and Mpulungu Harbour could shake up the standings by taking points off promotion-chasing sides.
Week 27 of the ZPL National League promises high-stakes action across all fixtures. With the promotion race intensifying and the relegation battle heating up, every match this weekend will have a significant impact on the standings. Will Konkola Blades and Kansanshi Dynamos continue their dominance, or will there be a major shake-up in the table? Stay tuned for all the action!
