FAZ President and Head of State Applaud ZESCO United Seventh ABSA Cup Title Victory
ZESCO United were crowned 2025 Absa Cup champions after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout victory over defending champions Red Arrows in a tightly contested final that ended 1-1 in regulation time at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
The victory marked ZESCO’s seventh Absa Cup title and their first under the leadership of newly elected Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president, Keith Mweemba. In a congratulatory statement, Mweemba hailed the triumph as a special moment both for the club and his new administration.
“On behalf of myself, the executive committee and the entire football family, I wish to congratulate ZESCO United on winning their seventh Absa Cup title,” said Mweemba. “Congratulations to the players, technical bench, management and fans on the well-deserved victory.”
He also lauded Red Arrows for their spirited display: “Special recognition to Red Arrows for their hard-fought battle that may not have ended in victory on the day but were worthy finalists.”
Mweemba extended his gratitude to Absa Bank for their unwavering 18-year sponsorship of the tournament, describing the financial institution as “an all-weather partner” to Zambian football.
President Hakainde Hichilema, who attended the match as part of the final leg of his working visit to the Copperbelt, also commended both teams and emphasized the importance of sports in uniting the nation.
“This afternoon, as we concluded our working visit to the Copperbelt, we took the opportunity to watch the 2025 Absa Cup final between Red Arrows and ZESCO United at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium,” the President posted on Facebook.
“Football, and sport in general, plays a vital role in bringing our society together—a cause our government is dedicated to supporting.”
The Head of State praised Absa Bank’s long-standing commitment to sports development and encouraged other private sector players to follow suit.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to Absa Bank for their steadfast commitment to advancing sports development in our nation,” said Hichilema. “Congratulations to ZESCO United, affectionately known as ZEGA Mambo, for their victory in the 2025 Absa Cup. We also commend Red Arrows for their valiant performance as runners-up.”
FAZ President Mweemba also acknowledged President Hichilema’s consistent support for football, having graced the Absa Cup final for the fourth consecutive year, alongside the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Hon. Elvis Nkandu.
ZESCO United walked away with the K1 million grand prize, capping off a thrilling campaign with yet another piece of silverware for their collection.
