By Draxon Maloya
In a thrilling Airtel Top-8 Cup match, Bangwe All Stars FC executed their game plan to equalize on goal aggregate with Mighty Mukuru Wanderers, only to be eliminated through post-match penalties.
Despite defending deep throughout the first half, the rookies from Bangwe Township showcased their attacking prowess, scoring the only goal of the match at Mpira Stadium to level the aggregate score with the Nomads.
As the final whistle blew, the fate of both teams was left to be decided by a penalty shootout to determine who would advance to the semifinals of the prestigious cup competition.
Mighty Mukuru Wanderers’ goalkeeper, William Thole, emerged as the hero of the day, saving two penalty kicks from Bangwe All Stars, effectively eliminating them from the competition.
Thole’s outstanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award, along with a miniature trophy and a live chicken from grateful Wanderers supporters.
Wayimanya Live reported, “What a painful exit for the ghetto side. They fought like wounded buffaloes, defended in numbers compactly, but the game of football can be so cruel sometimes.”
“Bangwe All Stars are out of the 2024, William Thole saved two penalties, sparking wild celebrations among Wanderers supporters who had been quiet for most of the match,” the report concluded.
The Nomads are now set to face either the winners of the match between Silver Strikers and Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos, who will meet in Balaka on Sunday, with the Central Bankers leading 4-1 from their first quarter-final fixture.
Picture Credit: Wa Ganyu
