Log leaders Red Arrows will put their slim advantage at the summit of the MTN Super League on the line when they host defending champions Power Dynamos in a rescheduled Week 18 blockbuster at Nkoloma Stadium on Thursday afternoon.
Separated by just a single point, the clash has all the ingredients of a potential title decider. Arrows sit top with 39 points from 20 matches, while Dynamos lurk closely behind on 38 points, albeit having played two fewer games — a statistic that adds even greater weight to the contest.
Head coach Chisi Mbewe believes this is exactly the kind of fixture players dream about.
“These are self-motivated games,” Mbewe said ahead of the encounter. “Every player wants to be involved in matches like this. The mood in camp is very high. We know the kind of game we are playing against a team in good form, but we are at home and everyone is looking forward to it.”
Arrows head into the fixture seeking redemption following a disappointing defeat away to Nchanga Rangers in Chingola. But Mbewe insists that result has been parked firmly in the past.
“That is water under the bridge. We accepted the loss and now we focus on the next assignment. The preparation has gone very well. There is strong competition in the squad and the input from the players, the technical bench, the executive and even the supporters has been excellent.”
The Airmen have made a few adjustments to the squad that travelled to Chingola, with injuries forcing careful management of personnel. Charles Kalumba trained with the team but failed a late fitness test and will not be risked, while Paul Katema and Sabiwa Kombe remain long-term absentees.
There was, however, positive news with Michee Malonga returning from an ankle injury and back in contention for selection after impressing in training.
With expectations soaring among supporters, Mbewe has called for unity and belief as the title race intensifies.
“This is a very important game for us. Expectations are high and we are going into this match to fight for the three points. Losing is part of the game, but the league is still on. We cannot control what happened in Chingola. What we can control is our performance tomorrow.”
He also urged fans to turn up in numbers at Nkoloma Stadium.
“Our supporters are our 12th player. For us to be where we are today is because of them. We ask them to come in numbers, cheer the team from the first whistle to the last whistle, and let’s win this game together.”
Kick-off is set for 15:00 on Thursday, 26 February 2026. VIP tickets are pegged at K200, Grandstand at K100, and Open Wing at K30, with tickets available from Wednesday at Nkoloma Stadium.
