Silver Strikers have been crowned the 2024 TNM Super League champions, securing the title with two games to spare following a 1-0 victory over Mighty Mukuru Wanderers at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre, marking their first league triumph in 11 years.
In the 53rd minute, McDonald Lameck scored the match’s only goal, a strike that also earned him the Man of the Match award.
The win keeps Silver Strikers unbeaten in the league, amassing 64 points, 10 points ahead of Wanderers, who remain on 54 points.
Wanderers dominated possession in the first half, pushing forward with intent but failing to create significant chances.
Silver Strikers, adopting a more cautious, counterattacking strategy, patiently waited for their opportunity.
The second half saw a shift in momentum as Silver Strikers intensified their attacking efforts.
Lameck’s goal came from a long ball by goalkeeper George Chikooka. Positioned near Wanderers’ defensive line, Lameck timed his run perfectly, controlled the ball with precision, and unleashed a powerful shot that beat Wanderers’ goalkeeper William Thole.
This was followed by “Ipatse moto!” chants from The Central Bankers’ fans in the stadium.
Despite making tactical changes and substitutions, Wanderers struggled to break down Silver Strikers’ well-organised defence.
Wanderers’ interim head coach, Bob Mpinganjira, lamented his team’s second-half lapse.
“We played well in the first half but were caught off-guard in the second half, which led to the goal. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find a response,” Mpinganjira said.
Silver Strikers’ head coach, Peter Mponda, praised his team for their discipline and execution.
“It was a professional performance. We capitalised on their missed chances and applied what we’d worked on all season. I’m proud of the players,” Mponda said.
The league will go into final phases on Sunday as Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos will host Mzuzu City Hammers, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets will travel to Mulanje to face FOMO, and Karonga United will take on Bangwe All Stars.
