Football pundits Charles ‘Grandmaster’ Nyirenda and former Flames forward Peterkins Kayira agree that the TNM Super League remains highly competitive, with the first round showcasing significant intensity.
- League Leaders: Silver Strikers
Silver Strikers lead with 37 points, unbeaten from 15 games.
- | POS | CLUB | PWDL | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
|—–|—————————|——|—-|—-|—-|—–|
| 1 | Silver Strikers | 15 | 34 | 9 | +25 | 37 |
Their tactical approach, led by experienced coach Peter Mponda, has been effective, but analysts caution that consistency is key to maintaining their lead.
Nyirenda observes, “Silver should stay focused. If they falter, even with two consecutive draws, they risk losing their advantage if their competitors capitalize.”
Silver Strikers’ defensive strategy has been robust, conceding only 9 goals while scoring 34, resulting in a goal difference of +25.
However, their reliance on a high pressing line and compact
midfield may become predictable and vulnerable to counter-attacks.
This was evidenced in their 2-2 draw against Kamuzu Barracks on July 14, 2024.
Gregory Nachipo capitalized on an erroneous clearance to score in the 20th minute, and Hope Namadzunda doubled the lead three minutes later after a defensive lapse.
However, swift changes later in the game enabled Chimwemwe Idana and Stain Dave to score, forcing a draw.
The club’s top scorers, Adiel Kaduya (4 goals) and midfield asset Chimwemwe Idana (3 goals and key assists), have been instrumental.
For example, in Silver’s 5-1 thrashing of MAFCO on April 27, 2024, Kaduya scored a brace.
However, Kaduya’s departure for studies in the USA on July 30 may impact their attacking dynamics.
2. Mighty Mukuru Wanderers
Mighty Mukuru Wanderers, currently in second place with 28 points, have shown considerable attacking prowess but struggle defensively, having conceded 10 goals from 22 they scored.
- | 2 | Mighty Mukuru Wanderers | 15 | 22 | 10 | +12 | 28 |
They have 8 wins, 4 draws, and 3 defeats.
Christopher Kumwembe and Isaac Kaliati have been significant contributors, each scoring 6 goals.
Their last game, on 1 August 2024, saw them ease past Baka City with a 2-0 win, with Kaliati and Misheck Botomani on the scoresheet.
Nyirenda recommends that Wanderers treat each game like a cup final and focus on securing victories in away matches to challenge the leaders effectively.
Kayira advises addressing technical shortcomings to enhance their chances.
Last season, at the same period, they had 8 wins, 6 draws, and a single defeat, accumulating 30 points.
3. Mzuzu City Hammers
Ending the first round in third place with 25 points, Mzuzu City Hammers, who finished 12th last season, have experienced a season of ups and downs.
- | 3 | Mzuzu City Hammers | 15 | 15 | 16 | -1 | 25 |
Their recent 1-1 draw against Karonga United on July 31 highlighted tactical adjustments.
Coach Kondwa Ikangwa shifted to a 3-5-2 formation at halftime, which disrupted Karonga’s rhythm but also exposed Mzuzu on the flanks, leading to an equalizer.
Injuries (of Yasin Rashid and Eric Kaonga) and positional changes have affected their consistency, though striker Isaac Msiska’s 8 goals have been crucial.
4. FCB Nyasa Big Bullets
Defending champions FCB Nyasa Big Bullets are in fourth place with 23 points.
Their first round has been inconsistent, marked by 5 wins, 8 draws, and 2 defeats.
- | 4 | FCB Nyasa Big Bullets | 15 | 18 | 9 | +9 | 23 |
Patrick Mwaungulu (5 goals) [Who left for TP Mazembe] and Babatunde Adepoje [Venda Academy Loanee] (4 goals) have been their regular scorers.
Their recent 2-0 victory over Bangwe All Stars on July 31 showcased their use of the 4-4-2 formation, providing tactical balance.
Coach Calisto Pasuwa identified issues with player complacency and fatigue due to a congested fixture schedule, stressing the need for improved positivity and unity.
Sports Analyst Mwakhele Kaliande predicts challenges for Bullets in defending their title, noting the need for tactical adjustments in the second round.
Nyirenda suggests a more aggressive approach and leveraging home advantage to regain momentum.
5. Kamuzu Barracks
Positioned 5th with 23 points, Kamuzu Barracks have faltered recently, including a 4-1 defeat to Chitipa United.
- | 5 | Kamuzu Barracks | 15 | 20 | 18 | +2 | 23 |
In their last four games against Silver, Dedza Dynamos, Creck, and Chitipa, they have scored 7 and conceded 10 goals, collecting only three points.
Coach Charles Kamanga plans to address tactical errors to improve performance.
Striker Zeliati Nkhoma’s 11 goals remain a bright spot as he leads the top goal scorers chart.
6. Creck Sporting Club
The league rookies have had a strong first round, finishing in 6th position with 23 points, tying with Bullets and KB but separated by goal difference.
- | 6 | Creck SC | 15 | 20 | 19 | +1 | 23 |
George Chaomba (5 goals) and Gift Kadawati (3 goals) have been their regular goal scorers.
Their latest game, on 1 August 2024 was a 2-0 victory against Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos, with Chaomba and Arnod Son Kiyama scoring.
7. Moyale Barracks
In 7th place with 22 points, Moyale Barracks have shown potential but need to improve consistency.
- | 7 | Moyale FC | 15 | 16 | 13 | +3 | 22 |
Coach Prichard Mwansa is satisfied with their performance but plans to bring in more attack-minded players during the transfer window.
Moyale’s notable game was their 2-1 victory over Mighty Wanderers on July 13, with goals from Emmanuel Allan and Luke Chima.
But Raphael Phiri has been their best scorer, managing 5 goals since the season started in April this year.
MAFCO & Civil Service United
MAFCO is 8th with 21 points, while Civil Service United is 9th with 20 points.
| 8 | MAFCO FC | 15 | 17 | 19 | -2 | 21 |
| 9 | Civil Service United | 15 | 18 | 18 | 0 | 20 |
Both teams have shown competitive form but need to push for higher placements.
MAFCO’s Auspicious Kadzongola and Mphatso Philimoni have been lethal for the soldiers’ attacking options as they both have netted thrice.
Emmanuel Jnr Saviel, for the Civil Servants, has been on the scoresheet than any other CIVO player, sending the ball to the back of the net 7 times.
However, Saviel has left the club for Zambia’s Mwafulirwa Wanderers, leaving their goal scoring options limited to Muhamad Biason who has scored four goals.
Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos and Karonga United
Dedza is 10th with 19 points, tied with Karonga United in 11th.
- | 10 | Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos | 15 | 19 | 16 | +3 | 19 |
| 11 | Karonga United | 15 | 19 | 20 | -1 | 19 |
However, Dedza Dynamos can boast with their striker, Promise Kamwendo, who has managed to net 7 times, ranking him the fourth highest scorer.
Karonga United can rely on Blessings Mwalilino since he is their most relied scorer, managing 6 goals in 14 caps and has potential to get more.
Mwalilino was one of the scorers in their famous 2-1 victory against FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on 21 July 2024.
Nonetheless, Sports Analyst Dan Chemis urges both teams are looking to improve their standings to avoid slipping down further the rankings.
Mighty Wakawaka Tigers and FOMO
In 12th place with 15 points, Mighty Tigers have edged out of the relegation zone.
They can rely on Masambiro Kalua who has scored three times.
FOMO, who are newbies in the league, have the same points as Tigers but a worse goal difference, remains below them, on 13th position.
Hassan Luwembe has been their goals getter, managing 5 goals, making him one of the players to look out after in the second round.
- | 12 | Mighty Tigers | 15 | 18 | 21 | -3 | 15 |
| 13 | FOMO FC | 15 | 11 | 23 | -12 | 15 |
Chitipa United
Finishing 14th with 12 points, Chitipa United has struggled with form.
| 14 | Chitipa United | 15 | 15 | 23 | -8 | 12 |
Chemis suggests investing in new players and hiring a tactician who can inspire a return to past glory.
Despite that, the team has had more net-finders by the names of Francis Nyirenda, Rajab Nyirenda and Ramadhan Ntafu who all scored thrice,
Chemis suggests the team can definitely rely on them.
Bangwe All Stars
In 15th place with 9 points, Bangwe All Stars have faced a difficult season marked by frequent coaching changes.
- | 15 | Bangwe All Stars | 15 | 17 | 27 | -10 | 9 |
Coach Rogers Yasin remains hopeful for survival despite the team’s challenges.
Football Data Analyst, Anstey Andrew Joseph Chinombo suggests Bangwe’s strategic focus areas should be:
Defensive Improvement: Reduce goals conceded (avg. 1.13 per match), tighten marking, improve communication, and goalkeeper performance.
Tactical Adjustments: Analyse performances, adjust tactics based on opponent strengths/weaknesses, improve home and away performances.
Mental Resilience: Work on team morale and mental resilience, maintain a positive mindset and strong team spirit crucial in relegation battles.
Player Rotation and Depth: Utilise squad rotation to keep players fresh and avoid injuries, ensure enough depth to handle injuries or suspensions effectively.
Baka City
At the bottom of the table with 7 points, Baka City’s performance has been poor, with only 1 win, 4 draws, and 9 defeats.
- | 16 | Baka City | 15 | 9 | 28 | -19 | 7 |
Sports Analyst Dan Chemis predicts potential relegation due to financial difficulties and lack of depth.
Chinombo suggests that Baka City should:
Improve Defensive Stability: Reduce goals conceded (avg. 1.86 per match), increase clean sheets (current rate: 21%).
Enhance Goal Scoring: Increase goals scored (avg. 0.64 per match), improve shot accuracy and conversion rates (current rate: 6%).
Strengthen Home Form: Maximize home advantage (current record: 1 win, 3 draws, 4 losses), capitalize on home games for crucial points.
Outlook for the Second Round
The second round of the league will kick off on Saturday with no mid-season break to ensure the league finishes on time.
Former Flames player James Sangala predicts a more aggressive second round, potentially backed by squad depth strengthening from various teams, especially those threatened by relegation.
