Karonga United and Mighty Wanderers secured their places in the semi-finals of the 2026 Airtel Top 8 Cup after coming through their quarterfinal second-leg assignments on Sunday.
Karonga United produced one of the biggest comebacks of the competition after overturning a 2-0 first-leg deficit to beat Silver Strikers 3-0 at Karonga Stadium and progress 3-2 on aggregate.
After a goalless first half, Karonga came back strongly after the break, with Lennox Kiwambe scoring twice in the 61st and 83rd minutes. Godfrey Sibale also found the net in the 68th minute to complete a memorable win for the hosts.
Kiwambe was named Player of the Match following his decisive performance.
Karonga United assistant coach Christopher Chinkwita praised his players for showing determination.
“This is a significant win for us, and I appreciate the boys for their valiant effort. We are thrilled to have rekindled our hopes of clinching this title,” said Chinkwita.
Silver Strikers coach Peter Mgangira attributed the defeat to officiating.
“The referee significantly influenced Karonga’s victory. Many of his calls went against us. This match was not particularly challenging, and I am not concerned because I recognise the referee’s impact,” he said.
Karonga United will now face Ekhaya FC in the semi-finals after Ekhaya eliminated defending champions FCB Nyasa Big Bullets 7-6 on post-match penalties following a 1-1 draw.
At Aubrey Dimba Stadium, Mighty Wanderers advanced after holding Creck Sporting to a 1-1 draw, progressing 3-1 on aggregate.
Wanderers carried a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, but Creck Sporting gave themselves hope when Ramadhan Mtafu scored in the 14th minute.
The Nomads responded in the second half through Cameroonian striker Sama Thierry Tanjong, who equalised in the 55th minute with a bicycle kick from inside the box.
Wanderers coach Bob Mpinganjira said the match was a tough test for his side.
“This was one of our most challenging matches in this tournament, and we are pleased to have progressed to the semi-finals,” said Mpinganjira.
Mighty Wanderers will face Blue Eagles in the semi-finals after the Area 30 side progressed following a 1-1 draw against Civil Service United.
