Red Lions, who lead the NBS Bank National Division League (NDL) table after the first round, will kick off their second-round campaign this Sunday when they host third-placed Namitete Zitha at Balaka Stadium.
The inaugural season of the country’s second-tier league has been tight throughout, with Red Lions topping the table on 23 points from 11 matches — just two points ahead of Mitundu Baptist and three clear of Namitete Zitha. Baka City sit fourth, five points adrift.
On Saturday, Mitundu Baptist travel to Mpira Stadium to face 8th-placed Ndirande Stars, while Chintheche United, who are 7th, will also play at Mpira Stadium the next day against 5th-placed Bangwe All Stars, who have 17 points. Another key fixture on Saturday sees 10th-placed Ntaja United (11 points) clash against Baka City at Balaka Stadium.
Chilumba Barracks, level on 11 points with Ntaja but placed 11th on goal difference, face FOMO FC (6th with 16 points) away at Mulanje Park on Sunday.
Bottom-placed Jenda United, with just three points from a single win and 10 losses, face fellow relegation candidates Mchinji Villa at Kasungu Stadium. Jenda have scored only five goals while conceding 23 and are desperate to cause an upset to revive their survival hopes.
The relegation battle remains fierce as four teams will drop to pave way for regional league winners from the South, East, Centre, and North, while the top three teams will earn promotion to the TNM Super League.
The NBS Bank NDL has attracted enthusiastic support across venues, with fans following their teams countrywide. The second round promises more drama, goals, and rising stars as teams chase glory. Beyond competition, the league continues to provide a platform for young players to shine while uniting communities in pride and excitement every weekend.
