By Angela Bambala Bwalya
ZANACO FC head coach Numba Mumamba has described his side’s upcoming clash against Konkola Blades as a must-win encounter as the Bankers look to bounce back from their recent draw with Green Buffaloes.
Speaking ahead of the match, Mumamba stressed the importance of securing maximum points after what he termed as two dropped points in their last outing.
“Another important game that we have ahead of us. This is a game we are taking very seriously. Looking back at the Buffaloes game where we dropped two points, it is time for us to make amends by working hard so that we can collect all three points.”
The ZANACO boss acknowledged the threat posed by Konkola Blades, who have been in impressive form in recent weeks.
“Of course it won’t be an easy game playing Konkola Blades. It is a team that is playing good football. If you look at their recent matches, their form is excellent, which tells us it will not be an easy encounter.”
Despite the challenge, Mumamba expressed confidence in his team’s preparations and believes a strong performance could yield the desired result.
“We’ve done everything possible to ensure the team is ready for the challenge ahead. If we can replicate the attitude and application we have seen in training, then by God’s grace we will come off the pitch with the three points.”
The coach also made a passionate appeal to supporters to rally behind the team.
“To our fans, we urge them to continue coming in numbers. They have always been there for the team. All they need to do is cheer us from kickoff until the final whistle so that we can all leave the stadium smiling.”
ZANACO currently sit fifth on the MTN Super League table with 38 points from 23 matches, while Konkola Blades occupy eighth position with 33 points from the same number of games. Both teams head into the fixture in similar form, each recording three wins, one draw, and one defeat in their last five outings.
Historically, ZANACO have dominated this fixture, winning 13 of the last 27 meetings compared to Blades’ four victories, with 10 matches ending in draws. Konkola Blades are also winless in their last four encounters against the Bankers, with their most recent triumph dating back to 2021.
