The Central Region Football Association (CRFA) has congratulated Chatoloma ADMARC following their stunning upset victory over elite league side Karonga United in the FDH Bank Cup round of 32 on Saturday afternoon.

The Chipiku Stores Central Region Football League side traveled to Karonga as heavy underdogs but pulled off a remarkable 5-3 penalty shootout victory after the match ended 1-1 in regular time.

The third-tier league side took a surprise lead through Laston Pingeni’s first-half strike, putting the Super League opponents under pressure. However, Karonga United fought back through Allen Chihana, who equalized with 11 minutes remaining to force the match into a penalty shootout.

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The drama continued in the shootout, where Chihana saw his penalty saved while Chatoloma ADMARC converted all five of their spot-kicks to secure a famous victory despite playing with ten men for much of the second half following a red card.

CRFA General Secretary Antonio Manda issued a congratulatory statement praising the team’s achievement and its significance for regional football.

“This milestone is a true testimony of hard work, determination, and the fighting spirit that defines our region’s football,” Manda said. “Advancing to the Round of 16 is not only a great honor for Chatoloma ADMARC FC but also a proud moment for the entire Central Region football fraternity.”

Manda urged the team to maintain their standards as they progress in the competition, emphasizing the importance of hard work, discipline, and unity in making history for the Central Region and inspiring other teams to believe they can succeed in national tournaments.

Chatoloma ADMARC head coach Hellings Malunje expressed pride in his players’ performance despite the numerical disadvantage they faced.

“It was a good game for us because we came here as underdogs. Karonga play in the Super League while we play in Chipiku, but the early goal gave us a chance to play well in the first half,” Malunje explained. “In the second half, we dropped intensity due to the red card, which I don’t understand how it came about.”

Chatoloma ADMARC will now face the winner of the National Division League clash between Mchinji Villa and Mitundu Baptist in the round of 16.

Saturday’s Other Results

Several other matches took place on the opening day of the round of 32:

• Mighty Wanderers defeated MAFCO 3-1 at Kamuzu Stadium
• Moyale Barracks beat Ekhaya FC 2-1 at Rumphi Stadium
• Civil Service United eliminated Chitipa United 3-0 on penalties after a goalless draw

The Central Region has recent FDH Bank Cup success to draw inspiration from. In 2024, Blue Eagles from the Chipiku Stores Central Region Premier League captured the trophy, defeating FCB Nyasa Big Bullets 4-2 on penalties in the final.