Humbled Premier League Clubs advance in Malawi's Richest Cup
The tournament has attracted a staggering 934 teams from across the country, solidifying its status as the most lucrative cup competition in the nation with a record prize fund of K320 million.
CHITIPA, Malawi — Chitipa United emphatically defeated White Eagles 4-0 to secure their spot in the quarterfinals of the Castel Challenge Cup at Karonga Stadium on Saturday, writes Victor Musongole.
Jack Beza opened the scoring for the home team in the 16th minute after capitalising on a set piece from Glem Lemera.
China Chirwa doubled their lead in the 33rd minute, atoning for his earlier penalty miss.
The teams went into halftime with Chitipa United leading 2-0.
White Eagles were presented with a penalty opportunity four minutes from time, but Precious Kasiya's attempt struck the post and the rebound ricocheted over the bar, much to the relief of Chitipa United goalkeeper George Chikooka.
In the 87th minute, Mabuchi Msiska extended Chitipa United's lead to 3-0, finishing confidently after receiving a through ball from Stain Patrick. Rajab Nyirenda sealed the victory with a stunning 25-meter freekick, making it 4-0.
White Eagles assistant coach Wisdom Matuya acknowledged their defeat, suggesting that questionable officiating contributed to the outcome.
"My team played good football here, and you saw how the Super League side struggled. They scored, but the officiating team was against us," Matuya lamented.
Gift Nathaniel Mkamanga, Chitipa United's assistant coach, expressed his delight with the win and urged the team's supporters to continue their unwavering support.
"We had a good game today. We have scored goals and reached the quarterfinals. It is good for our side. Our aim is to reach the finals. As you know, we can only end in the top five in the league, so I ask our supporters to continue rallying behind the team," Mkamanga stated.
In other Castel Challenge Cup matches, Mighty Mukuru Wanderers edged out Super League-relegated side Red Lions 1-0 courtesy of Gaddie Chirwa's lone strike, while Ekwendeni Hammers edged out Dedza Dynamos through post-penalties to become the first team to advance to the quarterfinals last week.
The tournament has garnered remarkable interest, with 934 team entries nationwide and a record prize fund of K320 million, making it the most lucrative cup competition in the country.