By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Nkana interim head coach Elijah Tana has described Wednesday’s Super League meeting with Mines United as a “do or die” encounter, with his side seeking to halt a worrying run of form.
The 13-time champions return to Nkana Stadium looking to recover from their Kitwe derby defeat to Power Dynamos, a result that extended their winless streak and deepened pressure in the closing stages of the campaign.
“Well the game against Mines United is a tough game. Mines is a team which can bring confusion to big teams,” Tana said.
“So we are ready for them and we know they will come in all out attack.”
Nkana have failed to win any of their last five matches, drawing three and losing two, leaving them 13th on 31 points and still looking over their shoulder in the lower half of the table.
Despite the setback in the derby, Tana has urged his players to reset mentally and approach the fixture with renewed belief.
“Of course we did our best but for me, to my boys, I would rather say they should just walk with their heads up,” he added.
The former Zambia international was unequivocal about the importance of the match, framing it as pivotal to Nkana’s push for stability.
“These guys will come here to make a difference but for us that is a do or die game. We must win. We are geared and ready for the battle.”
Opponents Mines United arrive in even more precarious form, sitting bottom of the table on 15 points and without a victory in their last ten matches. Their fight for survival, however, could make them dangerous opponents, with little to lose as the season nears its conclusion.
Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 local time in Kitwe, with both sides under pressure to deliver—Nkana aiming to end their slump, and Mines United desperate to keep their survival hopes alive.
