Derby Time – Nkana, Power Dynamos renew rivalry
By Precious Bwale and Aaron Mubanga Jnr
It’s that time of the season again, where we get to see the streets of kitwe painted red and yellow, as Nkana takes on powerful Power Dynamos at Nkana ‘pa-chilata’ Stadium.
The kitwe derby is one of the most popular and interesting derbies in Zambian League/Zambia and many people look forward to it. Yes, we can even dare say the biggest but of course, when Kitwe United is in the Super League, they have a thing or two to say about their derby with Nkana.
This is a game that is considered to be a game of pride for the two sides, but for tomorrow’s encounter, both teams might want to win it for a spot in the ABSA Cup.
The rejuvenated Power Dynamos will not only go into the game for pride but also look for a straight 6th win after having struggled in the first quarter of the season.
They are unbeaten in the last seven games winning the last five including an impressive 2-1 win over ZESCO United away at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
Mwenya Chipepo seems to have found the winning formula at Arthur Davies Stadium and has but the players and the fans believing.
On the other hand, Nkana have been very inconsistent but the last two games have shown so much promise after they recorded back to back wins
Beston Chambeshi and his team will be looking to have a better position on the log table as the Qualification for the ABSA Cup heats up.
However, we should be quick to remind you that form does not usually come to play and goes out the windows when the derby comes around.
Nkana have however struggled to beat Power Dynamos when at home having last won the derby at Nkana Stadium on 3rd May, 2015 thanks to a Djunes Kanda penalty.
Abayellow have managed to win four of the last five meetings at Nkana Stadium with one ending in draw.
The last 20 matches have seen Nkana win seven while Power have won nine with the other four ending in the two teams sharing spoils.
Godfrey Ngwenya has been in fine form for Abayellow and will play a huge role tomorrow but the impact of Fred Mulambia and U-20 diminutive midfielder Joshua ‘Budo’ Mutale can not be overlooked and the duo could play a huge part.
For Nkana, Alex ‘Bazo’ Ng’onga will again meet his former team Power Dynamos with a point to prove which could work in Nkana’s favor.
The last time the two met on opposing sides, It was Bazo who came out tops with an additional time strike to seal a 2-0 win for Kalampa at Arthur Davies Stadium.
Both teams stand on 22 points with nkana behind on goal difference but things could change tomorrow.
The scene is set, the fans are anxiously waiting and the players know the importance of this match hence what is left for UE is to wait for kick-off and enjoy the action.