The ZPL Men’s National League returns this weekend with Week 22 fixtures that could prove pivotal at both ends of the table, as promotion hopefuls chase momentum and relegation-threatened sides scramble for survival.
With nine matches spread across Saturday and Sunday, the spotlight firmly falls on Lusaka’s Reiz Arena where log leaders Makeni All Stars face a tricky away test against seventh-placed Aguila Stars in what stands out as the match of the week.
Match of the Week: Aguila Stars vs Makeni All Stars
Makeni All Stars arrive in Lusaka sitting top of the table with 44 points from 21 matches, knowing that every fixture now carries promotion-defining significance. Aguila Stars, currently 7th with 30 points, may be outside the automatic promotion picture, but they remain one of the most difficult sides to break down at home.
History offers little separation between the two sides. Their only previous league meeting ended goalless earlier this season, and neither team has managed a win over the other. That trend suggests another tight encounter, but Makeni’s consistency gives them a slight edge.
Aguila will bank on the experience of Chisamba Lungu, the goal threat of Keke Sipuka, and the creativity of Samson Malaya to unsettle the league leaders. Makeni, meanwhile, will once again look to talismanic striker Mike Musukuma, whose goals have powered their title charge.
A win for Makeni would tighten their grip at the summit, while Aguila could announce themselves as genuine late contenders with a statement victory.
Top-Four Race: Roan, Trident, Chirundu and Forest Rangers on the hunt
Just behind Makeni, the chase remains intense. Roan United, Kafue Celtic, and Trident FC all have eyes firmly fixed on keeping pace with the leaders.
Roan United, second on 38 points, travel to face struggling Ndola United at Musa Kasonka Stadium. Roan have dominated this fixture historically and will be favourites to collect another vital away win.
Third-placed Trident FC make the long trip to Chipata to face Chipata City Council, knowing three points could keep them within touching distance of top spot.
In Lusaka, fifth-placed Chirundu United host Mpulungu Harbour, while Forest Rangers visit Chambishi FC. Both Chirundu and Forest Rangers are eyeing wins that could propel them into the top four. Forest Rangers, coached by Boyd Mulwanda, arrive in good spirits following a commanding 3–0 victory over Locus, with January signing Nicholas Chipoya leading the league’s scoring charts.
Survival battles: Jumulo vs River Plate headline relegation fight
At the bottom end of the table, tension is just as high. Jumulo FC and River Plate meet at Baluba Stadium in a must-win encounter for both sides. Jumulo sit 15th on 19 points, while River Plate are 17th with 16 points. With safety still within reach, defeat could prove damaging for either side’s survival hopes.
Elsewhere, Locus FC, still hovering dangerously near the drop zone, host promotion-chasing Kafue Celtic at Nationalist Stadium. The Crocs will be led by last weekend’s hat-trick hero Chama Chansa, alongside Zambia U17 captain Jonathan Kalimina and Mulenga Chiluba, as they look to pile pressure on Makeni at the top.
Week 22 set to shape the season
With the league entering a decisive phase, Week 22 promises drama, quality and high stakes. From Makeni All Stars’ title charge to the fierce relegation scrap involving Jumulo, River Plate and Locus, every result will carry significant implications.
