The 2026 Airtel Top 8 quarterfinals kicked off with two draws at Bingu National Stadium on Saturday, leaving all four teams with everything to play for in the second legs.
Blue Eagles and Civil Service United played out a goalless draw in the opening match. Both teams created chances, but neither side could find the breakthrough.
Blue Eagles started brightly with quick passing and attacks from wide areas, but Civil Service United remained disciplined in defence and managed to frustrate their opponents.
Blue Eagles coach DeKlerk Msakakuona said his side created good opportunities but failed to convert them.
“We created some good situations but failed to convert them. The tie is still open and we will prepare well for the second leg,” said Msakakuona.
Civil Service United coach Abbas Makawa said he was satisfied with the result, but insisted the job is not yet done.
“It was a difficult match against a good side. We remained disciplined and achieved a result that keeps us in contention,” said Makawa.
In the second match, Ekhaya FC came from behind to hold defending champions FCB Nyasa Big Bullets to a 1-1 draw.
Bullets took the lead through George Chaomba after controlling most of the first half, but Ekhaya returned stronger after the break and equalised through Allen Chihana.
Ekhaya coach Enos Chatama praised his players for showing character against the defending champions.
“The players showed great character. We were facing a very experienced side, but we never stopped believing,” said Chatama.
Bullets deputy coach Heston Munthali admitted his side missed chances to put the game beyond Ekhaya’s reach.
“We had opportunities to put the game beyond reach but failed to take them. Credit to Ekhaya for fighting back,” said Munthali.
With both matches ending level, the semifinal race remains wide open ahead of the return legs.
Today, Mighty Wanderers will host Creck Sporting at Mpira Stadium in Blantyre, while Silver Strikers will face Karonga United in Lilongwe.
