By 
ZESCO United FC claimed a record seventh Absa Cup title after edging Red Arrows FC 4-2 on penalties in a dramatic final at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Saturday.
The match ended 1-1 in regular time, with Abraham Siankombo putting ZESCO ahead in the 28th minute before Joseph Phiri equalised for Red Arrows in the 53rd.
But it was goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata who emerged as the hero, saving a crucial penalty and earning the Final Man of the Match award.
ZESCO converted four of their five penalties through Freddy Michael, Dennis Nya, Solomon Sakala, and Alex N’gonga.
Red Arrows faltered, with Michee Malonga’s attempt saved and veteran James Chamanga sending his effort over the bar. Saddam Yusuf Phiri and Peter Kalota scored for the 2024 champions.
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The final was played before thousands of fans and graced by President Hakainde Hichilema, who personally purchased 22,000 tickets.
He was joined by Absa Bank Zambia Managing Director Mizinga Melu, newly-elected FAZ President, Keith Mweemba, and Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu.
According to the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), this marks ZESCO United’s seventh Absa Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2007, 2008, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2019.
Prize Money Breakdown:
Winners (ZESCO United): K1,000,000
Runners-up (Red Arrows): K400,000
Player of the Tournament: Peter Musukuma – K25,000
Golden Glove: Charles Kalumba (Red Arrows) – K25,000
Final Man of the Match: Toaster Nsabata (ZESCO United) – K15,000
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