Zambia’s record Super League champions, Nkana FC escalated to the summit of the MTN Super League table after a dramatic 2-0 triumph over Mutondo Stars in an intriguing Week-19 showdown at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.

Congolese talisman Idris Mbombo was the hero of the day after he scored a sensational late brace that sent the Chilata faithfuls into raptures.

For a team that just months ago was staring relegation in the face, Nkana’s rise under the stewardship of coach Mwenya Chipepo has been nothing short of miraculous. Chipepo, who took the reins during one of Nkana’s toughest moments, has not only breathed life back into the team but has also reignited the passion at Chilata.

The match against Mutondo was a cagey affair for the first 88 minutes, as both teams battled for supremacy in a tense and nerve-wracking encounter. When it seemed the match was destined to end in a stalemate, Mbombo rose to the occasion, breaking the deadlock with a clinical finish that left Mutondo defense in disarray.

In the dying moments of regulation time, the Congolese predator struck again, coolly slotting home his second to seal the win and cement Nkana’s place at the top of the league table.

With 33 points, Nkana, who are chasing a 14th Super League Crown, now sits level with Kabwe Warriors and Red Arrows, both of whom secured victories against Nchanga Rangers and Power Dynamos respectively.

From the depths of despair to the summit of Zambian football, Kalampa has shown that nothing is impossible. The title race may be far from over, but one thing is clear: Nkana FC is back, and they mean business.

[Micheal Miyoba]