ZPL National League Week 24: Konkola Blades Extend Lead as Chipata United Struggles Continue

Week 24 of the ZPL National League delivered exciting action as Konkola Blades maintained their dominance at the top, while Chipata United remained at the bottom of the standings. The latest fixtures had a significant impact on the league table, with some teams strengthening their promotion hopes and others fighting for survival.

Konkola Blades Extend Lead at the Top

League leaders Konkola Blades continued their fine form with a 2-0 victory over Kafue Celtic, courtesy of a brace from Francis Mubanga. This win solidifies their position at the summit with 54 points, six points ahead of second-placed Kansanshi Dynamos, who also secured a crucial 2-1 victory against Aguila Stars with Tranqulin Kalonji Mwepu scoring twice.

Promotion Battle Heats Up

Mines United climbed to fourth place with 40 points after defeating third-placed Riverplate 2-0, with goals from Nicholas Mulilo and Terence Tembo. This result means that both Mines United and Riverplate are now tied on points, though Riverplate remains ahead on goal difference.

Meanwhile, Ndola United pulled off a 2-1 win against Prison Leopards, with Savior Kunda scoring a brace. This victory pushes Ndola United to 27 points, but they remain in 13th place, just outside the relegation zone.

Mid-Table and Survival Battles Continue

Kitwe United edged Trident 2-1, thanks to Shadrick Musonda’s brace, moving them up to 30 points. Jumulo and Chambishi played out a 1-1 draw, with Jackson Banda and Fred Mwila getting on the scoresheet. Chirundu United produced a statement performance, thrashing Young Green Buffaloes 4-1, with goals from Kunda Chabala, Robert Zulu, Ackson Mphalo, and Godfrey Chinga.

Chipata United Remain Bottom

The struggles of Chipata United continued as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Kafue Eagles, with Phuezzy Chibandika scoring the winner. Chipata United remains at the bottom with 19 points, while Kafue Eagles moved up to 12th place with 29 points.

Elsewhere, Mpulungu Harbour were awarded a walkover victory (3-0) against Leopards Hill, boosting their chances of finishing in the top half of the table.

Updated ZPL National League Standings (Top & Bottom Summary)

• 1st – Konkola Blades (54 points) ✅
• 2nd – Kansanshi Dynamos (48 points) ✅
• 3rd – Riverplate (40 points)
• 4th – Mines United (40 points)
• …
• 15th – Chambishi (23 points) ❌
• 16th – Kafue Celtic (23 points) ❌
• 17th – Leopards Hill (20 points) ❌
• 18th – Chipata United (19 points) ❌

What’s Next?

With just 10 games left in the season, the promotion battle is heating up, and teams at the bottom are running out of time to secure safety. Can Konkola Blades continue their push for promotion, or will Kansanshi Dynamos close the gap? Stay tuned for more updates from the ZPL National League!