The curtains open on yet another thrilling MTN Super League season this afternoon, August 19, 2023, as NAPSA Stars Football Club launches their 2023/24 campaign by hosting ZESCO United at Lusaka’s Woodlands Stadium.
Meanwhile, NAPSA Stars FC has strengthened its defence with the acquisition of left-back Zachariah Chilongoshi for a season.
Chilongoshi joins the Perry Mutapa-led side on loan from Prison Leopards FC.
And coming to today’s match, the anticipation among football fans has been exciting leading up to this fixture which is scheduled for 13:00hrs today.
Following weeks of physical, tactical, and psychological preparations, the Pensioners will be looking at starting the season on a high note, to gain momentum going forward.
Their sights are firmly set on securing ABSA Cup qualification this time around, and the team’s determination and hard work reflect their high ambitions after finishing fifth in the previous campaign.
Overview:
Both ZESCO United and NAPSA Stars enjoyed an exhilarating 2022/23 season despite missing out on continental competitions, clinching third and fifth places respectively.
And both teams have prepared adequately ahead of this encounter, with significant reinforcement of their squads in anticipation for this campaign.
The Pensioners step into this fixture with the intent of securing their first home victory. However, this task demands overcoming the formidable George Lwandamina-led ZESCO United side, which has consistently excelled in recent years.
Coach Perry Mutapa emphasizes the significance of a strong start but remains cautious of the ZESCO United team’s prowess.
Team News:
Both teams have bolstered their squads ahead of this highly anticipated fixture, promising an engaging clash.
NAPSA Stars FC has secured the services of three new players: strikers Saith Sakala and Nazim Amokachi, along with defensive reinforcement Zachariah Chilongoshi.
ZESCO United, too, has introduced several fresh faces during the off-season, solidifying their ranks with a series of confirmed signings.
Head-to-Head:
| 06/01/24 | SUL | ZESCO United | – | NAPSA Stars |
| 19/08/23 | SUL | NAPSA Stars | 13 : 00 | ZESCO United |
| 19/02/23 | SUL | ZESCO United | 2 – 0 | NAPSA Stars |
| 19/10/22 | SUL | NAPSA Stars | 2 – 1 | ZESCO United |
| 13/06/21 | SUL | ZESCO United | 2 – 0 | NAPSA Stars |
| 01/11/20 | SUL | NAPSA Stars | 1 – 1 | ZESCO United |
| 23/02/20 | SUL | NAPSA Stars | 2 – 1 | ZESCO United |
| 06/10/19 | SUL | ZESCO United | 3 – 2 | NAPSA Stars |
How to Watch the NAPSA Stars vs. ZESCO United Match:
The game is slated to commence at 13:00hrs and will be broadcast live on SuperSport Variety 4. Live updates will also be available throughout the game on NAPSA Stars FC’s official Facebook and Twitter pages.