Political undertones surface, as fans nearly mar Red Arrows, Kabwe Warriors match in thrilling ABSA Cup final (Video)

The Zambia Air Force (ZAF)-sponsored team, Red Arrows, have emerged triumphant as ABSA 2024 champions, after a thrilling 2-1 win over Kabwe Warriors at Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.

Thousands of football enthusiasts, including President Hakainde Hichilema, witnessed the intense encounter.

However, the game was nearly marred as opposing football fans took sides in cheering or booing the president who had graced the occasion.

The political undertones, however, gave way to a scintillating match as fans temporarily put behind them the ongoing pains of rising cost of living triggered by hike in fuel and electricity prices, as well as the dwindling value of the Kwacha.

To the match proper, Red Arrows’ Ricky Banda wasted no time, finding the net within the first 20 seconds of the game, while teammate Alassane Diarra doubled the lead in the 42nd minute.

Kabwe Warriors managed to narrow the gap with a goal from Godfrey Binga, assisted by Ocean Mushure, in the 52nd minute.

The match, played in a jubilant atmosphere, saw an additional seven minutes of play.

President Hichilema, senior government official, ABSA Bank Managing Director, Mizinga Melu, United Party for National Development (UPND), were among the spectators, demonstrating his commitment to sports development.

Following the match, President Hichilema took to his Facebook page to pledge ongoing government support for all sports disciplines.

He hailed the breathtaking game, showcasing Zambia’s remarkable football talent.

Additionally, he congratulated the Under-17 Zambia National Women’s team for their 2-0 victory over Uganda in a World Cup Qualifier earlier that day.

“We will continue to support all sports disciplines and encourage corporate partnerships to foster sports growth in the country.
Congratulations to the 2024 ABSA Champions, Red Arrows,” President Hichilema affirmed, underscoring Zambia’s burgeoning football prowess.”

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.