National Division League side Red Lions became the 16th and final team to book their place in the FDH Bank Cup round of 16 after securing a narrow 2-1 victory over Prison United at Balaka Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Royal Bokosi netted a crucial 76th-minute winner after MacPeter Makwale’s first-half opener had been cancelled out by Shadreck Salapuwa on 52 minutes, securing a hard-fought win for the Soldiers.
Red Lions head coach Malumbo Mkandawire was delighted with the victory, acknowledging that facing local rivals made the game particularly challenging.
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“It was a very tough game. As you know, these are our neighbours, so they came hard at us, but I have to thank the boys because they showed character until we managed to get the desired result,” said Mkandawire.
Prison United coach Matthews Kamtedza graciously accepted the defeat and wished Lions well in the next round.
“We struggled in defence today, which enabled Red Lions to get their goals, but all in all, it was a good game. My players played very well and we just wish Red Lions all the best,” said Kamtedza.
Lions joined Shire-Wimbe, The Boys, and Mchinji Villa as the four teams to secure their round of 16 places this weekend.
Their victory means they will face elite league side Civil Service United at their home ground, with the date to be communicated by the Football Association of Malawi.
The complete round of 16 draw features several exciting matchups. The Boys will face FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, while Shire-Wimbe takes on Silver Strikers. Bangwe All Stars will play Kamuzu Barracks, and Zingwangwa United faces Blue Eagles. In an all elite league affair, Creck Sporting Club will meet Moyale Barracks. Mchinji Villa will clash with Chatoloma ADMARC, Mzuzu City Hammers will entertain Mighty Wanderers, and Red Lions will host Civil Service United.
The K250 million FDH Bank Cup is now in its fifth season in Malawi. Blue Eagles were last season’s champions, achieving the feat while playing in the regional Premier Division, which was one of the country’s second-tier leagues.
The tournament offers substantial rewards for participating teams. The winner will walk away with K45 million, while the runner-up will receive K20 million. Semi-finalists will each earn K8 million, and teams reaching the quarter-finals will receive K2 million eac
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