Blue Eagles Reserve will launch the defence of their 2026 CRFA Go Jet Investments League One title this afternoon when they travel to face Mbabzi United at ABC Blue Gym in Lilongwe.CRFA Chipiku Premier league launched
The reigning champions enter the new campaign determined to make a strong statement after lifting the 2025 League One crown, then known as the Premier Division. Blue Eagles Reserve amassed an impressive 63 points from 30 matches, edging out second-placed Extreme by a single point in one of the closest title races in recent seasons.
Mbabzi United, meanwhile, will be eager to begin the season on a positive note after finishing ninth in the previous campaign with 44 points from 30 matches. The Lilongwe-based side has strengthened its ambitions ahead of the new season and is targeting promotion to the National Division League.Antonio Manda Bids for Re-Election as General Secretary
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated encounter, Blue Eagles Reserve head coach Christopher Sibale expressed confidence in his team’s preparations and readiness for the challenge.
Sibale said his players are highly motivated to begin their title defence with a victory, adding that securing maximum points in the opening fixture would provide the momentum needed for another successful campaign.
“We are well prepared and our objective is to start with a win. A positive result in the first game will boost the confidence of the players as we work towards defending our championship,” he said.Chimbiya Stars Clinch CRFA TVM Division One Title, Earn Promotion
Mbabzi United General Secretary Vincent Malizani also sounded confident, insisting his side is fully prepared to challenge the defending champions.
Malizani said the club’s objective this season is not merely to compete but to win the league title and secure promotion to the National Division League.
“Our target is to defeat Blue Eagles Reserve. We have prepared well, and this season we want to fight for the championship and earn promotion,” he said.
Both teams know the importance of collecting all three points, especially with early league leaders Mchinji Boma Strikers already holding a four-point advantage after playing two matches.
An opening victory would not only narrow that gap but also provide a significant psychological boost as the race for the championship begins to take shape.
The fixture is expected to produce an exciting contest, with Blue Eagles Reserve aiming to demonstrate why they remain the team to beat, while Mbabzi United look to prove they are genuine promotion contenders.
Kick-off is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. at ABC Blue Gym in Lilongwe.
The 2026 CRFA Go Jet Investments League One is sponsored by Go Jet Investments to the tune of K50 million. The league champions will receive K14 million and secure promotion to the National Division League, while the runners-up will earn K6 million.
