By Vinjeru Ngwira
Nkhata Bay-based team, Chintheche United FC, is close to securing a spot in the top 8 phase of the Simso Mzuzu 12 Premier League.
This potential qualification comes after Chintheche United FC, also known as Vigumbuli, drew 2-2 with Chibavi Real Stars FC at Chibavi Ground on Thursday, August 15, 2024.
Chintheche United FC found themselves down by two goals but managed to level the score thanks to a brace from Brian Maulidi. His efforts provided much-needed relief for the team.
Chibavi Real Stars FC had earlier taken control of the match with goals from Peter Kamfoloma and Henderson Kanyika. These goals seemed sufficient to secure a point for the home side.
After the match, Chintheche United FC coach, Millan Banda, expressed satisfaction with the result, stating that the team’s goal was to earn at least one point from the game. He acknowledged that playing away from home is always challenging.
Banda also mentioned that four key players were absent due to disciplinary reasons, making the draw even more satisfactory for the team.
On the other side, Chibavi Real Stars FC coach, Ruben Njaliwa, accepted the draw but admitted that his team lacked coordination, especially after taking an early 2-0 lead.
Despite the result, Njaliwa remains hopeful that his team can still qualify for the top 8. The draw moved Chibavi Real Stars FC to 4th place on the log table, with 13 points from 10 games.
Chintheche United FC remains at the top of Cluster C with 19 points. They need just one more point to secure their place in the top 8. Their next match is against Likoma United FC on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at their home ground, Chiwaza Ground.
In a related development, the General Secretary of the Northern Region Football Association, Masiya Nyasulu, commented on the intensity of the competition, noting that many teams in each cluster still have a chance to qualify for the top 8.
Nyasulu also praised the teams for their good behavior throughout the competition and expressed hope that they will continue to maintain discipline in all aspects.