ROBINSON KUNDA, Lusaka
ZESCO United’s chase for the fifth Super Division title comes under scrutiny today when they face stubborn Nkwazi in a rescheduled Week 23 match at Edwin Imboela Stadium in Lusaka.
Zesco have always struggled against Nkwazi and coach George Lwandamina is aware that the encounter will not be easy although the Ndola side are favourites to carry the day.
Zesco are at the summit with 55 points, six above second-placed Zanaco and a win could see them opening up a nine-point lead.
Nkwazi are sixth with 36 points.
Nkwazi beat Zesco 2-1 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola in the first meeting.
Both sides are buoyed by their Barclays Cup quarter-final victories last weekend.
Zesco beat Division One (South) leaders Kabwe Warriors 2-0 while Nkwazi overcame legendary cup fighters ‘Mighty’ Mufulira Wanderers 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time.
Lwandamina will look to inform strikers Winston Kalengo and Jackson Mwanza to end Nkwazi’s dominance.
Chipolopolo striker Kalengo is the Super Division topscorer with 13 goals and the Nkwazi defence built around veteran Michael Bwalya should expect a tiring afternoon.
Mwape Mwelwa, Cletus Chama, Justin Zulu and Misheck Chaila will dictate play in midfield while Kenya international David Odhiambo will marshal the defence.
Skipper Jacob Banda is a surer starter in goal.
Nkwazi will seek a double over Zesco and Steward Chikandiwa and Rodrick Zimba will lead the onslaught.