Red Lions Top First Round as NBS Bank NDL Wraps Up
Red Lions have finished the first round of the NBS Bank National Division League (NDL) 2025 on top of the log with 23 points following a 1-1 draw against Namitete Zitha on Sunday afternoon, August 24, at Mchinji Community Ground.
The result sealed Red Lions’ status as league leaders, while Mitundu Baptist who thrashed Ndirande Stars 3-0 on Saturday at Civo Stadium closed the round in second place with 21 points. Namitete Zitha, who have suffered only one defeat in the first round, finished third on 20 points.
Mitundu Baptist emerged as the highest scorers in the first round with 18 goals, while Red Lions boasted the meanest defense, conceding only four goals. Raheem Mtondera of Mitundu Baptist leads the Golden Boot race with 12 goals, six clear of Chitsanzo Saidi of FOMO FC.
At Chitipa Stadium, FOMO FC drew 1-1 with Chilumba Barracks to climb to sixth on the table with 16 points, displacing Chintheche United on goal difference. Glyn Msowoya opened the scoring for Chilumba in the 29th minute, assisted by Hassan Upindi, before Divason Daudi equalised for FOMO in the 74th minute. Upindi’s overall performance earned him the Man of the Match award, while Namitete Zitha’s Jafali Mpelera was voted Player of the Day.
On Saturday, Mitundu Baptist extended their fine run with goals from Samuel Phiri (42’), Raheem Mtondera (45+1 pen), and Charles Mbewe (75’) to seal a 3-0 victory over Ndirande Stars. Mtondera, who also provided an assist, was instrumental once again, while Henderson Banda was named Player of the Match.
At Mchinji Stadium, Mchinji Villa climbed from 11th to 9th place after a 2-0 win over bottom-placed Jenda United, courtesy of goals from Stephano George (4’) and Justice Honde (40’). Jafali John’s commanding performance earned him Man of the Match.
Elsewhere, Chintheche United and Bangwe All Stars played out a goalless draw at Rumphi Stadium, while Baka City edged Ntaja United 1-0 at Karonga Stadium through an early goal by Amon Mwakitalu. The victory pushed Baka to fourth, displacing Bangwe All Stars to fifth. Hastings Ndau of Baka was voted Man of the Match.
With the first round complete, the second round of the NBS Bank NDL will resume after the international break on the weekend of 13–14 September 2025.
