The 2024 ABSA Cup quarterfinals ended on Sunday at the Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka, with Kabwe Warriors, FC Muza, Nchanga Rangers, and Red Arrows advancing to the semifinals.
Kabwe Warriors defeated Indeni FC 5-0 to advance to the final four for the first time in their history, while FC MUZA, last year’s runners-up, eliminated Zambian Super League champions Power Dynamos thanks to an Andrew Phiri goal.
Record champions Zesco United suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of national division one side Nchanga Rangers, who won 4-3 on post-match penalties after a goalless draw.
It was also heartbreaking for Zambia National Service-sponsored Green Eagles, who lost 2-1 to Zambian Super League leaders and favorites Red Arrows in the semi-finals.
The Airmen will face the Nchanga Rangers in what is expected to be a nail-biting match, according to coach Chisi Mbewe.
“It’s another tricky game against Nchanga,” said the Red Arrows coach. “They are motivated and playing well in the national division so the most important thing is that we just need to respect the game and work extra hard so that we achieve the targets we have set for the season [winning the ABSA Cup and league].”
Meanwhile, Kabwe Warriors defender Killian Kanguluma is overjoyed to help his team advance to the final four, but warns against underestimating their opponents.
“FC MUZA is a different team and facing them will be another pressure, but we will go and prepare for them,” he said.
