TNM Super League leaders, Silver Strikers, have showcased their dominance with a commanding 6-1 victory over MAFCO at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe.
The win extends their unbeaten run to 25 games, amassing 57 points from 16 wins and 9 draws.
The Bankers’ goals came from Isaac Shema (7′), Gift Chunga’s brace (39′, 50′), an own goal by Steve Mkweza (63′), Misheck Selemani (79′), and Chimwemwe Idana (86′). MAFCO’s consolation goal was netted by Yohane Malunga (66′).
Coach Peter Mponda’s 4-3-3 formation, with Chunga, Binwell Katinji, and Selemani leading the attack, proved effective.
The midfield trio of Uchizi Vunga, Chikondi Kamanga and Idana controlled the tempo, with Vunga instrumental in delivering set-pieces that resulted in two goals.
MAFCO’s brief resurgence came after Yohane Malunga’s goal, but their efforts were overshadowed by Silver Strikers’ relentless pressure.
Selemani’s late red card (90+7′), for time-wasting, was the only blemish in an otherwise flawless performance.
At the end of the game, Maxwell Paipi was voted the Man of the Match.
Second-placed Mighty Mukuru Wanderers remain four points behind Silver Strikers after a narrow 1-0 victory against Bangwe All Stars.
With 53 points from 26 games (16 wins, 5 draws, 5 losses), the Nomads continue their title pursuit.
The decisive moment came in the 32nd minute when Misheck Botoman headed in a cross from Stanley Sanudi.
Despite several missed opportunities in the second half, including a thunderous Wallace Adam shot hitting the post (88′), the Nomads held firm.
Bangwe began strongly, forcing early saves from Wanderers’ goalkeeper William Thole, but their intensity faded as the match progressed.
Wanderers’ defence, led by Sanudi and Nyirenda, stood resolute, limiting Bangwe to a single corner in the second half.
Bangwe Coach Trevor Kajawa lamented his side’s inability to convert early chances, noting their struggles against a Wanderers team familiar with their tactics.
Wanderers’ Assistant Coach Bob Mpinganjira stressed the importance of securing three points as they push for the championship.
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets remain third in the TNM Super League standings with 44 points, narrowly ahead of Mzuzu Hammers, who share the same points but trail on goal difference. Civil Service United hold 6th place with 39 points.
Creck Sporting Club missed a chance to climb higher, staying in 5th place with 38 points after suffering a 1-0 defeat to relegation-bound FOMO at Mulanje Park Stadium. Hussein Hassan’s 20th-minute strike secured the victory.
Karonga United and MAFCO, also on 38 points, occupy 7th and 8th positions, respectively, with goal difference separating the three teams.
Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos moved from 11th to 9th position with 37 points after a 1-0 win over already-relegated Baka City, thanks to Promise Kamwendo’s 29th-minute goal.
Kamuzu Barracks follow closely in 10th place, also with 37 points but behind on goal difference.
Moyale Barracks sit 11th with 36 points, while relegation troubles loom for Mighty Wakawaka Tigers in 12th with 29 points.
Bangwe All Stars are in 13th with 27 points, followed by FOMO on 25 points in 14th and Chitipa United on 23 points in 15th. Baka City, already relegated, anchor the table with just 12 points.
League action resumes this weekend, featuring a crucial clash between Mighty Wakawaka Tigers and Chitipa United in the battle to avoid relegation.
The Central Bankers will also face the defending champions, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets.
Additionally, a “brothers’ warfare” awaits as Moyale Barracks take on Kamuzu Barracks.