Ricky Banda Backs Red Arrows to Defend ABSA Cup Title

Sudan-based striker Ricky Banda believes Red Arrows have what it takes to defend the 2025 ABSA Cup title, despite their inconsistent form in the Super League this season.

The Airmen are set to face ZESCO United in the final of the 2025 ABSA Cup at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium this Saturday.

Red Arrows booked their spot in a second consecutive ABSA Cup final after eliminating Power Dynamos, as they aim to clinch their third title in the competition’s history.

Although Banda departed the club earlier this year to join Sudanese giants El Merreikh on a six-month loan deal, he remains emotionally connected to the team.

Ricky Banda receiving his top scorer award after the 2024 ABSA Cup final at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.

Since joining Red Arrows in 2021, Banda has scored 41 goals across all competitions, cementing his place as one of the Airmen’s most prolific strikers.

Banda, who was last year’s ABSA Cup top scorer with four goals, expressed confidence in his former teammates.

“I just want to wish Red Arrows the best; they have worked so hard to reach this far. This season it was a little bit difficult for the team, but am really proud of them and hoping for them to win the ABSA Cup trophy,” he said.

“I know the team needs this trophy. We did it last time and they will do it this time because I believe that God will make a way and the ABSA Cup is for Red hot,” said Banda.

Julius Malulu May 8, 2025

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Julius Malulu is a Bolanews sports journalist and football analyst from Zambia. He previously worked for United Voice and Radio Christian Voice as a sports reporter. He specializes in writing exclusive pieces and conducting interviews. He has appeared as an analyst on Znbc TV's Talking Football show, the radio Christian Voice Back Page, Camnet TV, and the Everything Bola Podcast.