The 2025/26 ZPL National League season enters a decisive phase as Week 20 fixtures take centre stage, with promotion contenders, mid-table hopefuls and relegation-threatened sides all facing defining moments. With the standings tightening across the table, every match now carries significant consequences, whether in the race for MTN Super League promotion or the fight to avoid relegation.
Makeni All Stars currently lead the standings with 42 points after 19 matches, while Kafue Celtic, Roan United and Trident remain firmly in contention. At the bottom, Riverplate, Mpulungu Harbour and Locus FC are under severe pressure, making Week 20 a critical turning point for many clubs.
Below is a match-by-match analysis of all Week 20 fixtures, examining current league positions, points on the board, and exactly what a win, draw or defeat will mean for each team involved.
SATURDAY – 24th JANUARY 2026
Chambishi vs Riverplate | Chambishi Stadium | 15:00
Chambishi head into this fixture sitting 12th on the table with 19 points from 19 matches, hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone. Their campaign has been marked by inconsistency, and while they are not yet in immediate danger, dropped points could quickly drag them deeper into trouble.
Riverplate, bottom of the table in 18th place with just 13 points, arrive knowing this is close to a must-win encounter. A victory would not only narrow the gap to safety but also restore belief in their survival hopes. A draw would do little to ease their situation, while another loss could leave them cut adrift.
For Chambishi, three points would create breathing space and push them further away from the bottom three. Anything less risks inviting pressure from below, especially with other relegation rivals also in action this weekend.
Indeni vs Kafue Celtic | Indeni Sports Complex | 15:00
Indeni currently sit 9th with 23 points and remain in a transitional phase of their season. While relegation fears are not immediate, their position leaves little margin for error, particularly against a promotion-chasing side.
Kafue Celtic are second on the table with 36 points and know that any slip could cost them ground in the promotion race. A win would keep them firmly in the hunt for top spot, while a draw may allow Roan United or Trident to close in.
For Indeni, victory would be a statement result and could propel them toward the top half. A loss, however, would stall momentum and potentially draw them into unnecessary relegation conversations.
Ndola United vs Makeni All Stars | Musa Kasonka Stadium | 15:00
Ndola United find themselves in 15th place with 18 points and firmly entrenched in the relegation battle. Every home fixture is now critical, particularly against the league leaders.
Makeni All Stars lead the table with 42 points and come into this match knowing that maintaining consistency is key. Three points would strengthen their grip on top spot, while a draw could open the door for Kafue Celtic to reduce the gap.
For Ndola United, an upset win would be massive, potentially lifting them out of the relegation zone. A defeat would further deepen their survival crisis and increase pressure heading into the final stretch of the season.
Roan United vs Kitwe United | Kafubu Stadium | 15:00
Roan United sit third with 34 points from 18 matches and have one of the strongest defensive records in the league. This fixture represents an opportunity to keep pace with the top two.
Kitwe United, placed 11th with 20 points, remain in a precarious position. While not yet in the relegation zone, inconsistency has left them vulnerable.
A Roan United win would keep their promotion ambitions alive. For Kitwe United, even a draw could prove valuable, while defeat risks pulling them closer to the drop zone.
SUNDAY – 25th JANUARY 2026
Chirundu United vs Forest Rangers | Edwin Imboela Stadium | 15:00
Chirundu United are fifth with 33 points and remain firmly in promotion contention. Their form has been impressive, and a win here would apply pressure on the top four.
Forest Rangers sit sixth with 32 points, just one behind Chirundu, making this a true six-pointer. Victory would see Rangers leapfrog their opponents and reassert their promotion credentials.
A draw keeps both sides in contention but benefits those above them. A loss for either team would be a significant setback in an increasingly tight promotion race.
Chipata City Council vs Jumulo | David Kaunda Stadium | 15:00
Chipata City Council occupy 13th place with 19 points and are dangerously close to the relegation line. Their goal difference highlights ongoing struggles at both ends of the pitch.
Jumulo are 14th with 18 points and equally desperate for points. This fixture is a classic relegation six-pointer, where defeat could be costly.
A win for either side could provide crucial separation from the bottom three, while a draw risks keeping both clubs locked in the danger zone.
Locus FC vs Trident | Nationality Stadium | 15:00
Locus FC are 16th with 17 points and firmly in the relegation zone. Defensive lapses have cost them dearly, making every fixture a battle for survival.
Trident sit fourth with 33 points and remain serious promotion contenders. They will view this as a must-win fixture to maintain pressure on the top three.
Anything other than a Trident win would be a major setback for their ambitions. For Locus FC, even a draw could be valuable, but defeat would worsen their already precarious position.
Aguila Stars vs Atletico Lusaka | REIZ Arena | 15:00
Aguila Stars are eighth with 26 points and looking to push toward the upper half. Their attacking output has been strong, but defensive consistency remains an issue.
Atletico Lusaka sit 10th with 20 points and are still not completely safe. A positive result would ease relegation concerns.
For Aguila Stars, victory keeps top-six ambitions alive. Atletico Lusaka, however, cannot afford another defeat as pressure from below continues to mount.
Lumwana Radiants vs Mpulungu Harbour (Postponed to Wednesday)
Lumwana Radiants are seventh with 29 points and remain outsiders in the promotion conversation. A win would keep them within touching distance of the top six.
Mpulungu Harbour, 17th with 14 points, are in serious trouble. Matches in hand offer hope, but points must follow quickly.
For Mpulungu, defeat would further damage survival chances, while an unlikely win could reignite belief. Lumwana, meanwhile, will see this as an opportunity they cannot afford to waste.
Conclusion
Week 20 of the ZPL National League represents a defining chapter in the 2025/26 season. With promotion ambitions, mid-table security and relegation survival all at stake, the outcomes of these fixtures will significantly shape the league table.
As pressure intensifies, teams that manage composure and efficiency will separate themselves from the rest. One thing is certain — the margin for error is rapidly disappearing.
