Blue Eagles head coach Deklek Msakakuona is bracing for a hard-fought encounter this afternoon when his side takes on Silver Strikers in the FDH Cup quarterfinal at Nakhaka Stadium.

The defending champions eliminated the Bankers at the same stage last year, and Msakakuona expects his opponents to come out with a point to prove.

“I know that when Silver Strikers and Blue Eagles meet in any competition, it’s always a cracker, it’s always difficult,” Msakakuona said ahead of the clash. “I know it will be a good game, as both teams are good teams that want to grab something almost every year.”

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The Blue Eagles tactician acknowledged the challenge of defending their title but insists his team won’t be weighed down by last season’s success.

“It’s always difficult to defend a trophy in football, but this shouldn’t be on our minds,” he said. “Let’s forget what happened last year; this is a new year, and we’re playing Silver Strikers in a new game. It will be a difficult game, not only for Blue Eagles but also for Silver Strikers.”

Blue Eagles cruised into the last eight with a commanding 4-0 victory over Zingwangwa United, while Silver Strikers secured their place with an equally impressive 4-1 win against FC Shire.

The Area 30-based side won the FDH Cup last season after defeating FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on penalties in the final.

The fixture has become something of a grudge match in recent seasons, with both sides competing for the same silverware year after year. For Silver Strikers, this afternoon represents more than just a path to the semifinals—it’s an opportunity to erase the pain of last season’s exit and prove they can overcome the team that denied them progress.

Msakakuona’s side may carry the burden of defending their title, but they also carry the psychological edge of knowing they’ve already beaten their afternoon opponents when it mattered most. Whether that confidence will be enough to withstand a vengeful Silver Strikers remains to be seen.

Kick-off: 2:30pm
Venue: Nakhaka Stadium