Bingu National Stadium will today provide the stage for one of the biggest Airtel Top 8 finals in recent history as Ekhaya FC face Mighty Wanderers.
The final will also produce a new champion for the first time in three years, following FCB Nyasa Big Bullets’ three consecutive title wins from 2023 to 2025.
For Ekhaya coach Enos Chatama and Wanderers mentor Bob Mpinganjira, today’s final is not only about producing a good performance, but also making the right tactical decisions as both teams battle for the K40 million prize.
How Ekhaya See the Final
For Chatama, Ekhaya’s journey has already surpassed expectations. The debutants eliminated defending champions FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on penalties before beating Karonga United 2-1 in the semi-final to reach their first-ever Airtel Top 8 final.
But Chatama has refused to allow his players to celebrate too early, insisting that reaching the final will only matter if they go on to win the trophy.
Ekhaya’s elimination of Bullets showed tactical discipline and composure, while their semi-final victory over Karonga again demonstrated their ability to take chances when it matters most.
“Getting to the final is a big achievement, but it is not only about getting to the final. Today, we seek to win everything and give no respect whatsoever to our opponents,” said Chatama.
Wanderers’ View
Standing in Ekhaya’s way is a Wanderers side that knows what it takes to win the Airtel Top 8.
The Nomads lifted the trophy in 2022 and return to the final with experience, pedigree and confidence as reigning league champions.
Mpinganjira has already shown during the tournament that he understands the importance of respecting opponents, especially in knockout football where small details can decide matches.
“We know the importance of every match. We know it will be a difficult game, but we have planned well. In cup games, you can’t underrate any team,” said Mpinganjira.
The tactical battle between the two coaches is expected to play a key role in deciding the final.
Ekhaya have shown that they can handle pressure, having eliminated Bullets on penalties and then edged Karonga in the semi-final. Wanderers also had to hold their nerve from the spot to beat Blue Eagles after a 1-1 draw in their semi-final.
Chatama will have to decide whether to allow Ekhaya to attack from the start and unsettle Wanderers, or maintain the measured approach that helped them reach the final.
Mpinganjira, on the other hand, must decide whether to rely on Wanderers’ experience and control or push his attacking options early to put the debutants under pressure.
With history, pride and silverware on the line, today’s final is expected to deliver a fitting conclusion to an exciting Airtel Top 8 campaign.