By Edwin Mbewe
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Castel Malawi Limited expects regional teams to surprise big shots with astonishing displays in the MK320 million Castel Challenge Cup
Castel Malawi’s Regional Sales Manager Nkhwachi Mhango was speaking during the Central Region Football Association (CRFA) draw held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at Civo Clubhouse in the capital Lilongwe.
Mhango expressed the sponsor’s excitement over the way the Central Region football governing body has overseen the preliminary round of the cup, with 12 teams successfully advancing to the final stage.
“The excitement extends beyond mere motivation, resonating not only within the company but across the general population. Football commands a significant following in Malawi, showcasing the profound passion people have for the sport,” Mhango commented.
He continued, “As these teams progress to this stage and join the Super League teams, the prospect of witnessing unexpected outcomes and remarkable results is truly exhilarating. We aspire to witness these regional teams outperform the established giants.
“Additionally, we hope to see players from these regional teams eventually contributing to the Malawi national team. Notably, the absence of any reported violence or hooliganism thus far heightens our excitement. We encourage CRFA to maintain the same level of professionalism throughout the cup.”
Mhango also divulged that the company intends to introduce additional activities during the regional stage to enhance the excitement surrounding the cup.
Out of the 19 teams that participated in the Central region, 12 have secured their spots in the final stage, with five of them set to join TNM Super League teams at the national level.
The draw revealed that Kawinga FC, currently performing well in the Chipiku Premier League, will face the formidable Namitete Zitha FC, the defending champions of the 2022 Nyasa Capital Finance Cup.
Other matchups include Silver Strikers RSV FC against Ngolowindo FC from Salima, Villa FC taking on Leyman Panthers FC, Mitundu Baptist FC hosting either Spearhead or Kamuzu Barracks RSV FC, Mtengenji Monaco FC playing Dedza Young Soccer, and Chisomo Academy FC from Kasungu squaring off against Mangoni Warriors FC from Ntcheu.
Commending Castel Malawi Limited for their contribution to the cup, Goodall Chinjoka, CRFA Vice Chairman, highlighted the pivotal role the cup will play in the region’s sports development.
“We anticipate stiff competition among the 12 teams, given that only 5 will progress to the national level. This ensures an enthralling spectacle for fans. As CRFA, we are confident that the teams advancing to the next stage will fervently compete for the cup,” Chinjoka explained.
To uphold fairness during this critical stage, games will be held at neutral venues, with the specific dates set to be communicated in due course.
Owen Munthali of Kawinga FC expressed his enthusiasm for the draw, noting the desire to face Namitete Zitha FC after a considerable wait.
“We believe the spectators will relish this match. At Kawinga FC, we treat each game with equal importance, approaching them as if they were finals.
“We remain optimistic about progressing to the national level. We are also hopeful that the Referees’ body will assign competent officials to all matches, ensuring an enjoyable experience for the audience,” says Munthali.
