Ekhaya FC booked a place in the final of the 2026 Airtel Top 8 Cup for the first time in the club’s history after edging Karonga United 2-1 in a semi-final played at Silver Stadium on Saturday.
The victory added another memorable chapter to Ekhaya’s impressive campaign, with the Blantyre-based side now just one win away from lifting the prestigious trophy in their maiden appearance in the competition.
After eliminating defending champions FCB Nyasa Big Bullets in the quarter-finals through a dramatic penalty shootout, Ekhaya once again showed composure and resilience to overcome a determined Karonga United side.
Karonga had also gone into the match full of confidence after staging a remarkable comeback against Silver Strikers in the quarter-finals to reach the last four.
The opening stages of the semi-final were evenly contested, with both teams creating promising attacks but failing to find the decisive final pass. Karonga looked dangerous on the counterattack, while Ekhaya enjoyed more possession as they patiently searched for an opening.
Just when the first half looked set to end goalless, Ekhaya broke the deadlock in stoppage time through Allen Chihana, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire his side ahead.
Ekhaya returned for the second half with renewed confidence and continued to push forward. Their persistence paid off when Chimwemwe Chunga doubled the lead, putting them firmly in control of the contest.
Karonga refused to surrender and increased the intensity of their attacks as they searched for a way back into the match. Their efforts were rewarded when the referee awarded them a penalty, which Lennox Kiwambe calmly converted to reduce the deficit and set up a tense finish.
The goal gave Karonga renewed belief as they piled pressure on Ekhaya in the closing stages, but Ekhaya’s defence remained disciplined to protect the lead until the final whistle.
Ekhaya coach Enos Chatama said his players made good use of their chances against a strong opponent.
“At this level, the contest is always big. We managed to use the chances we had against a very good and motivated team,” said Chatama.
Karonga United assistant coach Christopher Chimkwita said the defeat was difficult to take, but praised his players for a strong campaign.
Ekhaya will now face the winner of today’s second semi-final between Blue Eagles and Mighty Wanderers, which will also be played at Silver Stadium.
