Nchanga Rangers Struggle with Form, Face Tough Challenge in Quest for 2024 ABSA Cup Final
Nchanga Rangers Struggle with Form, Face Tough Challenge in Quest for 2024 ABSA Cup Final
Nchanga Rangers, current leaders in the National League, face a challenging match this Saturday against the reigning MTN Super League Champions, Red Arrows, in the ABSA Cup semi-final at Arthur Davies Stadium.
Having reached the final only once before, in 2013 when they lost 3-1 to Red Arrows, Rangers are determined to make a mark in this prestigious tournament. They advanced to the semi-finals by defeating ZANACO on penalties in the quarterfinals and securing a 1-0 victory over ZESCO United in the semi-finals, courtesy of a goal from Bwalya Kasonde.
Despite their recent struggles in the National Division One League, where they have lost their last three matches, Rangers have shown resilience in the ABSA Cup, eliminating strong teams like Riverplate and ZESCO United. However, they have yet to score from open play in the tournament, relying instead on post-match penalties to secure victories.
In contrast, Red Arrows have been in top form, scoring 9 goals in their two games. Goalkeeper Victor Chabu has been a key player for them, and Rangers will need to find a way past him to secure a spot in the final. Players like Angel Lubamba, Mwiza Siwale, Bornwell Mwape, and Elliot Kampukesa will be crucial in providing the attacking threat for Nchanga Rangers.
Tickets for the match are available at ShopRite stores countrywide via CompuTicketing, starting from K30. The winner of the ABSA Cup will receive K800,000, with K350,000 reserved for the runner-up. Individual awards, such as the ABSA Life Player of the Tournament, Top Scorer, and Golden Glove, will each carry a prize of K25,000.
The ABSA Cup semi-finals will also feature Kabwe Warriors against FC MUZA at 12:30, making it a thrilling day of football at Arthur Davies Stadium.