Mchinji Villa have written their name into the history books after defeating Chatoloma Admarc 4-2 on Sunday to qualify for the quarterfinals of the FDH Bank Cup 2025. The result makes Villa the only lower-league side left standing in this year’s competition, keeping alive the fairytale of the underdogs.
The match at Mchinji was nothing short of dramatic. Chatoloma struck first in the 16th minute through Henry Kaunda, before Villa responded with intent. Kelvin Mustafa, who turned out to be the hero of the afternoon, scored a brilliant hat-trick in the 18th, 76th and 77th minutes. Davie Juwao also added his name on the scoresheet with a goal on the stroke of halftime. Chatoloma tried to stay in the contest, equalising in the 60th minute through a Patrick Martin penalty, but two quickfire goals from Mustafa sealed the tie and Villa’s place in the last eight.
Elsewhere, Civil Service United booked their quarterfinal ticket with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over NDL leaders Red Lions at Balaka Stadium on Sunday, thanks to Chikaiko Batson’s 57th-minute strike.
The excitement continued across the country as Creck Sporting edged Moyale Barracks 2-1, courtesy of goals from Patrick Mupanzi and Frank Phiri. FCB Nyasa Big Bullets eased past The Boyz 3-0 with a confident performance that saw goals from Blessings Msokera, Mike Mkwate and Chikumbutso Salima. Defending champions Blue Eagles also progressed after dispatching Zingwangwa United, while Silver Strikers showed their pedigree with a commanding win over FC Shire, powered by a hat-trick from Binwell Katinji.
Mighty Wanderers, on their part, saw off Mzuzu City Hammers 2-1 in an all-Super League clash, setting up a quarterfinal showdown with Creck Sporting.
The quarterfinal draw, conducted immediately after the last round of 16 fixtures, has set the stage for potentially explosive clashes. Mchinji Villa will face Civil Service United, while Creck Sporting have been paired with Mighty Wanderers. FCB Nyasa Big Bullets will lock horns with Kamuzu Barracks, and the defending champions Blue Eagles will go head-to-head with Silver Strikers in what is already being billed as a “final before the final.”
If Wanderers and Bullets both manage to progress, the semifinals could see the two rivals colliding in yet another Blantyre derby — adding even more spice to this year’s tournament.
For now, though, the spotlight belongs to Mchinji Villa, whose fairytale run has captured the imagination of fans across the country. Their victory not only keeps alive the dream of lower-league sides but also reminds Malawians that the FDH Bank Cup truly is the land of footballing surprises.
