When the 2025/26 Castel Challenge Cup kicked off, few would have predicted Goshen City Dedza Dynamos would reach the final, the Dedza-based outfit entered the competition without fanfare but have since authored one of the most compelling stories of this year’s tournament.
Their journey began in the Round of 32 with an impressive 3–1 away victory over Creck Sporting. Goals from Chikondi Mbeta, Chifuniro Mpinganjira and Luke Chima ensured safe passage into the next round and signalled early intent.
In the quarterfinals, Dynamos overcame Ekhaya FC 2–0 at Mpira Stadium in a tightly contested encounter. A disciplined defensive display laid the foundation before two second-half goals secured progression to the last four.
The semifinal at Kamuzu Stadium provided the ultimate test against Blue Eagles. Dynamos trailed late in the match after Micium Mhone struck in the 83rd minute, but the Yellow Boys refused to surrender. Gift Magola found a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage time to force a penalty shootout.
Composure under pressure proved decisive as Dedza Dynamos converted four spot kicks to win 4–3 and seal their first-ever appearance in the Castel Challenge Cup final.
Head coach Alex Ngwira insisted the team’s success has been built on character and hard work.
“The team has shown resilience and composure throughout this campaign. We have fought back from difficult situations and remained strong in high-pressure moments. We want to carry that spirit into the final,” said Ngwira.
Dedza Dynamos will now face FCB Nyasa Big Bullets in the final scheduled for 21 February 2026 at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, with the club aiming to crown their remarkable cup run with silverware.
