Football fever has taken over both Malawi and the African continent at large, with domestic leagues buzzing and the African Nations Championship (CHAN) igniting stadiums across borders.
From local heroes rising in the TNM Super League and NBM Women’s Premiership to continental giants battling it out in CHAN, this has been a week packed with passion, purpose, and pride.
At home, the TNM Super League served up yet another round of intense matchups. On Saturday Mighty Wanderers had to dig deep to salvage a 1-1 draw against Chitipa United after conceding early to Andrew Joseph. Blessings Singini came to the rescue in the 28th minute to secure a point.
Meanwhile, Silver Strikers and Mighty Tigers battled to a goalless draw in a game that highlighted defensive discipline over attacking flair.
Kamuzu Barracks, however, brought fireworks to the field with a 3-0 demolition of Blue Eagles, thanks to a brace from John Mchema and a late strike by Zeliati Nkhoma.
On Sunday the first match of the day pitted Mafco FC against FCB Nyasa Big Bullets.The tension was palpable, and the players gave it their all. In the end, it was Chikumbutso Salima who emerged as the hero, scoring the only goal of the game in the 78th minute. FCB Nyasa Big Bullets won 1-0.
The next match saw Civil Service United take on Mzuzu City Hammers. Frank Chizuze opened the scoring in the 28th minute, and Dastan Banda doubled the lead just two minutes later. Banda scored again in the 45th minute, and John Dambuleni sealed the win with a goal in the 75th minute. Civil Service United emerged victorious, winning 4-0.
The final match of the day was between Moyale FC and Karonga United. Rajab Juma wasted no time, scoring the only goal of the game in the first minute. Karonga United won 1-0.
In the NBM Women’s Premiership, the second week brought more momentum and fanfare. Ascent Soccer Academy continued their bright start by beating Mighty Wanderers Queens 2-0, with Mayamiko Mkandawire netting both goals in the first half.
Kukoma Ntopwa Women were also on fire, hammering Topik Academy 3-0 at Mpira Stadium. Kondaw Banda’s clinical hat-trick proved too much for the visitors.
In Lilongwe, Silver Strikers Ladies dismantled Moyale Sisters 4-0, with goals from Yamikani Mhango, Rhoda Chikuse, Ireen Khumalo, and Deborah Henry underlining their title credentials.
In the NBS Bank National Division League, grassroots competition continued to shine. Mchinji Villa edged Red Lions 2-1, courtesy of goals from Innocent Duma and Kelvin Msoloba. Mitundu Baptist claimed a narrow 1-0 win over Nthaja United, with Kondwani Kwalala proving the difference. Namitete Zitha pulled off a 2-1 win over Fomo FC, while Clement Mueach’s lone strike helped Bangwe All Stars edge Baka City 1-0 in another tightly contested affair.
The African Nations Championship (CHAN) added an international flavor to the week. The weekend kicked off with Tanzania stunning Burkina Faso 2-0 on Saturday, August 2, showcasing tactical superiority and clean execution in front of goal.
On Sunday, August 3, Kenya shocked the continent by defeating African giants DR Congo 1-0, while defending champions Morocco stamped their authority with a comfortable 2-0 win over Angola. A cagey affair between Madagascar and Mauritania ended goalless.
Monday, August 4 brought more thrills. Guinea edged Niger 1-0 in a closely contested battle, displaying grit and composure. Later in the evening, Algeria lit up the tournament with a dominant 3-0 performance over Uganda, underlining their strength and depth as title contenders.
