ZESCO United Clinch Record Seventh ABSA Cup Title in Penalty Shootout Thriller
ZESCO United have written yet another glorious chapter in their storied history by winning a record-extending seventh ABSA Cup title after edging Red Arrows 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Saturday.
The dramatic finale, attended by Republican President Hakainde Hichilema, was a pulsating encounter between two of Zambia’s top sides. Abraham Siankombo gave ZESCO United a deserved lead in the 28th minute with a superb finish, but Red Arrows struck back early in the second half through Joseph Phiri, who levelled matters in the 53rd minute.
With no further goals in regulation time, the contest was decided by a penalty shootout, where ZESCO United proved more composed. Dennis Nya, Freddy Michael, Solomon Sakala and Alex ‘Bazo’ Ng’onga all found the back of the net for ZESCO, while Arrows’ Michee Malonga had his effort saved and veteran striker James Chamanga fired over the bar. Saddam Yusuf Phiri and Peter Kalota converted their kicks for Arrows.
Goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata was the hero of the shootout for ZESCO United, making a crucial save and earning the Final Man of the Match award.
The victory handed ZESCO United a K1,000,000 winner’s cheque, while runners-up Red Arrows walked away with K400,000. The individual accolades included Peter Musukuma of ZESCO United being named Player of the Tournament (K25,000) and Red Arrows’ Charles Kalumba winning the Golden Glove (K25,000).
The 2025 ABSA Cup final was graced by several dignitaries including President Hichilema, Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu, FAZ President Keith Mweemba, and Absa Bank Zambia Managing Director Mizinga Melu.
ZESCO United’s latest triumph adds to their previous ABSA Cup titles won in 2007, 2008, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2019, firmly establishing them as the most successful team in the competition’s history.
