ZPL National League Week 14 Recap
The ZPL National League week 14 fixtures offered electrifying football action, impacting the league standings significantly. Here’s a detailed analysis of each game and its implications:
Mpulungu Harbour 1-0 Chirundu United
Mpulungu Harbour claimed an essential victory in their push for promotion, with Augustine Katongo’s solo strike proving decisive. The win pushes Mpulungu Harbour to 4th place with 26 points, narrowing the gap with the top three. Chirundu United struggled to match Mpulungu’s intensity, missing critical chances to equalize. Their position at 10th with 17 points reflects an inconsistent campaign, requiring tactical adjustments to challenge for a better finish. Mpulungu’s defense stood firm under pressure, showcasing their resilience.
Mines United 2-1 Kafue Eagles
A thrilling encounter saw Mines United edge Kafue Eagles with goals from Progress Bwalya and Nicholas Mulilo, who showed clinical precision in front of goal. Oliver Ng’andu netted a consolation for Kafue Eagles, who struggled to maintain defensive solidity. Mines United’s 22 points and 5th-place standing keep them within reach of the promotion pack, while Kafue Eagles remain in 16th, facing an uphill battle to escape relegation. Mines’ midfield dominance was pivotal, controlling the tempo throughout the game.
Konkola Blades 1-0 Jumulo
League leaders Konkola Blades extended their dominance with Victor Mubanga’s solitary goal sealing the win. The Blades now sit comfortably at the top with 33 points, underlining their title ambitions. Jumulo, on the other hand, dropped to 7th with 18 points, missing a vital opportunity to climb higher in the standings. Konkola’s disciplined backline and Mubanga’s clinical finish showcased their balanced squad capable of grinding out results. The match highlighted the gap between the top and mid-table contenders.
Prison Leopards 2-0 Chambishi
Prison Leopards continued their chase for promotion with a convincing win, courtesy of a brace from Isaac Ngoma. The victory solidifies their 3rd position with 28 points, only five behind the league leaders. Chambishi’s struggles persist, as they languish in 17th place with 14 points, facing serious relegation concerns. The Leopards’ attacking flair, led by Ngoma, was too much for Chambishi to handle. This match underscored the need for Chambishi to strengthen defensively if they hope to survive the drop.
Ndola United 3-1 Chipata United
Ndola United produced a commanding performance, with goals from Savior Kunda, Benson Mulenga, and Ignitius Kalunga propelling them to victory. Chipata United’s lone goal from Admar Tembo provided little solace as they remain at the bottom with 10 points. Ndola’s win takes them to 8th place with 17 points, boosting their confidence for the remaining games. Their attacking combinations and relentless pressing overwhelmed Chipata’s defense, emphasizing their growing form. Chipata must regroup quickly to salvage their season.
Leopards Hill 2-0 Aguila Stars
Leopards Hill earned a much-needed win through goals from Lukwembe Chisenga and John Goma. The victory moves them to 11th place with 16 points, easing their relegation worries. Aguila Stars, 13th with 15 points, failed to capitalize on their opportunities, highlighting their struggle for consistency. Leopards Hill’s midfield played a crucial role in linking up play, while their defensive discipline stifled Aguila’s attack. This result provides hope for Leopards Hill as they aim for mid-table stability.
Kafue Celtic 1-0 Young Green Buffaloes
David Chilufya’s strike earned Kafue Celtic a narrow but vital win, lifting them to 14th place with 15 points. Young Green Buffaloes remain 12th with the same points tally, as they failed to take their chances. Celtic’s resolute defense and quick transitions were the standout features of their performance. This victory is a step in the right direction for Kafue Celtic, who are looking to climb out of the relegation zone.
Riverplate 1-3 Trident
Golden Zansi gave Riverplate an early lead, but Trident’s response was emphatic. Goals from Gavin Mukandamwene, Gilbert Tentani, and Lewis Chola Mwape sealed the win for Trident, moving them to 6th place with 18 points. Riverplate’s defensive lapses saw them slip to 9th with 17 points. Trident’s high-pressing style and clinical finishing were on full display, making them one of the teams to watch in the second half of the season.
Kitwe United 0-0 Kansanshi Dynamos
Kitwe United and Kansanshi Dynamos played out a goalless stalemate in a match dominated by defensive setups. Kitwe remains 15th with 14 points, failing to capitalize on home advantage. Kansanshi, still 2nd with 29 points, missed the chance to close the gap on Konkola Blades. Both teams’ lack of creativity in the final third resulted in a frustrating draw. Kansanshi must rediscover their attacking spark to keep their promotion push alive.
Week 14 offered thrilling matches and critical results that reshaped the league standings. Konkola Blades strengthened their grip at the top, while Kansanshi Dynamos and Prison Leopards kept up the chase. The relegation battle remains fierce, with Chipata United, Kafue Eagles, and Chambishi all struggling to climb out of the danger zone. As the league heats up, every point will matter in the promotion race and fight for survival.
