Defending champions ZESCO United have secured their place in the 2026 ABSA Cup following a crucial 2-1 away victory over ZANACO FC in a rescheduled Week 17 fixture played at Sunset Stadium in Lusaka on Thursday.
The seven-time champions clinched the final seventh qualifying slot on 25 points, edging out FC MUZA, who had occupied the position at the mid-season cutoff on 24 points.
Fast Start, Strong Response
ZESCO wasted no time asserting themselves, breaking the deadlock in the fifth minute through Elvis Bernard Addae. The Ghanaian forward capitalised on a costly miscommunication between Isaac Shamujompa and Fred Mwimanzi, pouncing to give the visitors an early advantage.
ZANACO responded swiftly and were back on level terms in the 11th minute. Eliya Mandanji calmly converted from the penalty spot after Williams was brought down inside the area, restoring parity in what was shaping up to be a tightly contested encounter.
The two sides went into the halftime break locked at 1-1, with momentum evenly balanced.
Hiver Seals Qualification
The decisive moment arrived in the 77th minute when Amine Hiver found the back of the net to hand ZESCO a vital lead. The Chad International’s strike ultimately proved the difference, ensuring the Ndola-based side completed a crucial double objective — maximum points and ABSA Cup qualification.
Super League Seven Confirmed
With the win, ZESCO join Power Dynamos FC, Red Arrows FC, Kabwe Warriors FC, Nchanga Rangers FC, Mufulira Wanderers FC, and ZANACO as the seven MTN Super League sides heading straight into the ABSA Cup draw. All seven teams will receive a bye from the preliminary stage.
MTN Super League – Rescheduled Week 17
Full-Time:
ZANACO 1-2 ZESCO United
(Eliya Mandanji 11’ pen | Elvis Bernard Addae 5’, Amine Hiver 77’)
