Makeni All Stars tightened their grip on the title race after a crucial home victory, while Forest Rangers delivered an emphatic performance at Dola Hill in a weekend defined by drama, resilience and a flurry of stalemates.
Makeni pull clear at the summit
At Reiz Arena, Makeni All Stars bounced back in style with a hard-fought 2–1 win over Lumwana Radiants to open a seven-point gap at the top of the table. Joseph Chandwila handed the league leaders the advantage in the first half, finishing confidently to reward Makeni’s early dominance.
Lumwana refused to fold and were back on level terms in the 63rd minute when Changala Simutenda struck to silence the home crowd. Just as the contest appeared destined for a draw, Penias Tonga stepped up in the 80th minute and calmly converted from the penalty spot to secure a priceless three points.
The win moves Makeni All Stars to 48 points and strengthens their march towards promotion as the season edges into its decisive phase.
Forest Rangers roar at Dola Hill
Forest Rangers produced one of the standout displays of the weekend with a commanding 3–1 victory over Chipata City Council. After a tight opening period, Saviour Kunda broke the deadlock shortly after the restart before John Kosamu doubled the lead six minutes later, putting Rangers firmly in control.
Chipata City Council briefly threatened a comeback when Dalitso Lungu pulled one back in the 73rd minute, but Tobias Chungu sealed the result late on with a well-taken goal in the 86th minute. The victory lifts Forest Rangers to third place on 41 points, keeping them firmly in the promotion conversation.
Chirundu held but stay second
At Nkoloma, Chirundu United were forced to settle for a 2–2 draw against Atletico Lusaka in a lively encounter. Atletico struck first through Edmond Lungu Banda in the 15th minute before an own goal by Micheal Zulu brought Chirundu level in the 57th.
Francis Bubu Mutalange restored Atletico’s lead in the 63rd minute, but Chirundu showed character as Joseph Chilimina grabbed a late equaliser in the 87th minute. Despite dropping points, Chirundu United remain second on the log with 41 points.
Draws define a busy Saturday
Elsewhere, Kafue Celtic and Chambishi FC played out a goalless draw, while Kitwe United shared the spoils 1–1 with Indeni FC after Musa Mutepuka cancelled out Jonathan Munalula’s early strike.
Roan United and Aguila Stars served up an entertaining 2–2 draw, with Samuel Chiposa and Semiwe Mwila on target for Roan, while Kalolamanda Sichivula and Samson Malaya replied for Aguila. River Plate and Ndola United also ended 1–1, as Desmond Nvirenda’s early goal was matched by Saulos Banda. Trident and Jumulo were inseparable in a 0–0 stalemate.
