Ekhaya FC and Blue Eagles booked their places in the 2026 Airtel Top 8 semi-finals after surviving tense quarterfinal battles against FCB Nyasa Big Bullets and Civil Service United respectively.
Ekhaya produced one of the biggest shocks of the tournament after eliminating defending champions FCB Nyasa Big Bullets through a dramatic penalty shootout victory at Mpira Stadium.
The two sides played out a 1-1 draw in the second leg, leaving the tie level at 2-2 on aggregate after the first leg had also ended 1-1.
Ekhaya took the lead in the 43rd minute through Allen Chihana, who scored before halftime to put the hosts ahead and increase pressure on the defending champions.
Bullets responded after the break through Peter Banda, who equalised in the 57th minute with a well-taken free kick to restore parity and keep the tie alive.
With neither side able to find a winner in regulation time, the match went into a penalty shootout, where Ekhaya held their nerve to win 7-6 and secure a historic place in the semi-finals.
Ekhaya coach Enos Chatama praised his players for showing belief and discipline against one of the country’s most successful clubs.
“This is a huge achievement for us. We respected Bullets, but we also believed in our ability. The players showed character and discipline throughout the match,” said Chatama.
Ekhaya will face Karonga United in the semi-finals after Karonga overturned a first-leg deficit to beat Silver Strikers 3-2 on aggregate.
Meanwhile, Blue Eagles also advanced to the semi-finals after eliminating Civil Service United following a hard-fought quarterfinal contest.
The second leg at CIVO Stadium ended 1-1, with Saulos Moyo scoring for Civil Service United before Micium Mhone equalised for Blue Eagles.
After a goalless first leg, the tie ended 1-1 on aggregate, with Blue Eagles progressing on away goals.
Civil Service United pushed hard and showed determination throughout the match, but Blue Eagles remained organised and did enough to secure their place in the last four.
The Area 30-based side will now face Mighty Wanderers, who advanced after eliminating Creck Sporting Club.
