(By Vinjeru Ngwira)
Dunduzu FC have been crowned champions of the 2024 Kettie Nyalongwe Trophy after securing a 2-1 comeback victory over Manchester FC in a match played on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at Khamba Ground.
The game attracted a large crowd from Khamba and Nkholongo, with fans enjoying an exciting and closely contested final.
Manchester FC opened the scoring in the 26th minute of the first half, maintaining their lead as the teams headed into the halftime break. Dunduzu FC equalized through a penalty after a Manchester FC player handled the ball inside the box.
In the 88th minute, Dunduzu FC broke through Manchester’s defense and scored the winning goal, sealing their triumph.
As champions, Dunduzu FC walked away with K350,000, while Manchester FC, the runners-up, received K250,000.
In other categories, Lupaso Queens emerged as netball champions, while Madodi claimed victory in the girls’ soccer division.
Speaking after the final, Chimwemwe Ngwira, Chairperson of the organizing committee, expressed satisfaction with the smooth management of the league, noting the absence of violence or other challenges during its organization. Ngwira emphasized that the league remains an essential platform for identifying talent for both Super League and Division League teams.
League sponsor Gift Mkandawire reflected on the tournament’s legacy, established 24 years ago in memory of his late mother, Kettie Nyalongwe. He highlighted that standout players from the league would have the opportunity to join Lube Masters FC before progressing to Mzuzu City Hammers FC.
Mkandawire also announced plans to increase sponsorship for the league next season to ensure continued development and support for grassroots football.