Four Men’s And Four Women’s Teams Earn Promotion As FAZ Division One Playoffs Conclude In Lusaka

The 2025 FAZ National Division One Playoffs concluded in dramatic fashion with eight teams, four men’s and four women’s, earning promotion to Zambia’s second-tier football leagues after an intense week of football and disciplinary drama in Lusaka.

Men’s Promotion: Chipata, Solwezi, Makeni And Roan Rise

In the men’s competition, Chipata City Council FC and Solwezi Academy sealed promotion from Group A after a pulsating final day at Edwin Imboela Stadium. Despite suffering their first defeat in a seven-goal thriller, Chipata City’s earlier wins secured top spot with nine points.

Their conquerors, Solwezi Academy, clinched the second ticket in style. They surged into a 2-0 lead early on through Vincent Chinoya and Evans Phiri, only for Chipata to respond with three goals from Peter Phiri, Blessings Sakala, and Nsama Mukalula. But Moffat Mwasapa’s quick-fire brace in the second half ensured a 4-3 win and Solwezi’s qualification.

Meanwhile at Munis Stadium, Crown FC wrapped up their campaign with a 6-1 demolition of Muchinga Blue Eagles. Gibson Mooya stole the show with five goals.

In Group B, Makeni All Stars FC had already secured promotion before Saturday’s matches and despite a surprise 1-0 loss to Bart’s FC, they topped the group on goal difference.

Joining them is the storied Roan United FC, who delivered when it mattered most. Starting the day in fourth place, Roan shocked Teta FC 3-0 with goals from Brian Kajima, Wilfred Chitembo, and Optone Maansa to complete a remarkable turnaround and return to the ZPL National League.

Women’s Promotion Marred By Ineligibility Rulings

The women’s playoffs were not without controversy. The FAZ Disciplinary Committee disqualified Young Green Buffaloes Girls FC from the tournament for fielding an ineligible player under a false identity. The player, falsely registered as Serah Tembo, appeared in multiple matches using forged documents. As per regulations, all their results were forfeited, drastically altering Group A standings.

This ruling elevated Valley Queens FC to group leaders with a perfect record, while Kalumbila Queens FC were awarded a 3-0 win over Mwenzo Queens Academy, who also faced sanctions for fielding an ineligible player, though not by impersonation. The technical breach cost Mwenzo a key result, ending their qualification hopes.

In Group B, Pemba Queens FC and Bwacha Pirates Queens FC emerged as the top two. Pemba sealed top spot with 10 points, while Bwacha thrashed Mulauli Academy 6-0 thanks to doubles from Febby Chewe and Mary Mukuka.

Promoted To 2025/26 ZPL National League (Men)

✅ Chipata City Council FC (Group A Winners)
✅ Solwezi Academy (Group A Runners-Up)
✅ Makeni All Stars FC (Group B Winners)
✅ Roan United FC (Group B Runners-Up)

Promoted To 2025/26 ZPL Women’s National League

✅ Kalumbila Queens FC (Group A Winners)
✅ Valley Queens FC (Group A Runners-Up)
✅ Pemba Queens FC (Group B Winners)
✅ Bwacha Pirates Queens FC (Group B Runners-Up)

The playoff tournament has been hailed for its competitiveness and drama, showcasing both talent and the importance of regulatory compliance in Zambian football.