Former Roan United midfielder Noah Chivuta says it would be great if the Luanshya side produced an upset over old-time rivals Nkana in the ABSA Cup round of 16.

Dubbed Stylish, Roan United is one of the legendary teams in Zambia and boasts of a history of having brought to the fore some of the best players that have donned the Chipolopolo shirt.

Over the years, Roan has been relegated to the doldrums of Zambian football and is currently playing in the third tier, the Copperbelt Provincial Division One.

Thanks to an expanded ABSA Cup format, Roan has a chance to rekindle their rivalry with another legendary side, Nkana, in the round of 16. They beat Young Nkwazi 1 – 0 in the preliminary round to set up this tie.

The two clubs have not met in a competitive match since Roan’s last appearance in the Super League nine years ago.

“If an upset is done, it will be so great” – Chivuta

Chivuta, who cut his football teeth at Roan United in the mid-90s before moving to Kabwe Warriors in 99, has told Bolanews exclusively that being a cup tie, the players have the right to dream.

“Being drawn with Nkana, that’s a cup game; that is an opportunity for not only results but going into the game as underdogs and that is where many players can also show their talent,” Chivuta said.

Chivuta, who is no stranger to upsets having been part of the Chipolopolo side that won the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Ivory Coast, said, if Roan turned the tables, it would be great for the club.

“If an upset is done, it will be so great; it will turn things around. They just have to go there and enjoy Stylish Roan; they can bring back those good memories,” Chivuta said.

He said a win would bring sweet memories to the people of Luanshya.

“Roan is a pride of Luanshya; it has produced a lot of players. It is a sleeping giant at the moment and has a very rich history… that is the only team that the Luanshya people can be proud of,” he said. 

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