By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Nkana Football Club interim coach Elijah Tana says his side is fully prepared for Wednesday’s crucial MTN Super League encounter against ZESCO United despite recent injury concerns and a difficult run of form.
The 13-time league champions travel to Levy Mwanawasa Stadium for a 15:00 CAT kick-off knowing that points remain vital in their battle to steer clear of the relegation zone.
“Well, as you can see, our boys are ready for the game,” Tana said in his pre-match interview. “We had some challenges with some players who had knocks, but for this game everyone is ready.”
Nkana currently sit 13th on the table with 35 points, only four points above the bottom four, and arrive in Ndola under mounting pressure following a poor sequence of results.
The Kitwe giants suffered a 1-0 defeat to Nchanga Rangers in their last outing and have managed just one victory in their previous nine league matches, drawing five and losing three.
Tana admitted the club’s recent performances have fallen below expectations but insisted the squad remains determined to finish the season strongly.
“We should end up with a good finish,” he said. “Nkana is a big team. We cannot play as if we are in Division One, but we will do our best in tomorrow’s game.”
Hosts ZESCO United are also enduring a difficult spell. The Ndola side sit 11th on 38 points and are without a win in their last five matches, recording four draws and one defeat. Their most recent result was a 1-0 loss to Green Eagles.
The reverse fixture between the two teams ended in a 1-1 draw, while recent meetings slightly favour ZESCO United. Of the last 10 encounters, ZESCO have won five, Nkana two, with three matches ending level.
Tana also looked ahead to Nkana’s final home match of the campaign against FC MUZA, stressing the importance of rewarding the club’s supporters.
“MUZA is a stubborn team, but we should get three points,” he said. “It’s our last home game and our fans should go home with happy hearts.”
