By Vinjeru Ngwira
As the Simso Mzuzu Division 12 Premier League nears its conclusion, league leaders Songwe Border United FC suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat to Chilumba Barracks FC on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at Majaliro Ground. The match delivered unexpected drama as Chilumba Barracks turned the tables on their highly favored opponents.
The game began with Songwe Border United displaying confidence and determination. Their efforts paid off in the 27th minute when Zebron Mwakaseghe struck to give them a deserved lead. The goal sparked excitement among the fans as Songwe looked poised to extend their dominance at the top of the table.
However, Chilumba Barracks showed resilience and gradually found their rhythm. In the 39th minute, they were awarded a penalty after a Songwe defender handled the ball inside the box. Benjamin Mapunda calmly converted the spot kick, leveling the score at 1-1 before halftime.
The second half saw both teams pushing for the winning goal. Songwe Border United created several opportunities but failed to capitalize. Chilumba Barracks, on the other hand, maintained their composure and waited for the right moment to strike.
That moment came in the dying minutes of the match. At the 90th minute, Benjamin Mapunda completed his brace, taking advantage of a defensive lapse by Songwe Border United. The goal stunned the league leaders and sealed an important victory for Chilumba Barracks.
Speaking after the match, Songwe Border United head coach Gift Chilongo admitted his team’s shortcomings. He attributed the loss to the numerous injuries affecting key players, which he said had left the team vulnerable. Despite the defeat, Chilongo urged fans to remain optimistic, reiterating the team’s commitment to securing promotion to the TNM Super League.
On the other hand, Chilumba Barracks coach Owen Sichali praised his players for their determination and tactical discipline. He noted that the larger pitch at Majaliro Ground allowed his team to play their natural game, unlike the smaller Kangindwa Ground used by Songwe Border United in the first round.
Sichali also emphasized that Chilumba Barracks are still fighting for a top-four finish in the league. He expressed confidence that his team would continue to deliver strong performances in the remaining matches.
Despite the setback, Songwe Border United remains at the top of the league standings with 24 points from 11 matches. Chilumba Barracks, with their crucial win, climbed to sixth place with 13 points from the same number of games.
Fans and analysts alike are now closely watching the final stages of the league. With just a few matches remaining, the race for promotion to the elite TNM Super League is heating up, and every game is proving crucial.
While Songwe Border United remains the favorite to secure promotion, their defeat highlights the unpredictable nature of the league. Chilumba Barracks’ performance serves as a reminder that no team can be underestimated as the competition intensifies.
As the league draws to a close, both teams will be looking to finish strongly, with Songwe Border aiming to bounce back and Chilumba Barracks striving to maintain their momentum.