Blue Eagles and Karonga United have a chance to write their own piece of history in the 2024 FDH Bank Cup when they face-off in the semi-final at Civo Stadium this afternoon.
At stake is a place in the final of the competition, whose winner will pocket 30 million as the ultimate prize.
The winner of this tie will face either holders FCB Nyasa Big Bullets or Moyale Barracks who face-off in another semi-final at Bingu National Stadium on Wednesday.
Both Eagles and Karonga have never reached the final of this competition since it was introduced in 2021.
This is the perfect opportunity for the two sides to make history in the competition.
For Eagles—the only second-tier side in the last four, are undefeated in all competitions this season. The Area 30 side has already caused upsets in this year’s edition having knocked two Super League teams.
Eagles stunned TNM Super League leaders Silver Strikers following a 5-3 victory on post-match penalties after goal-less stalemate in round of 32 before beating Baka City 3-0 in the quarterfinals.
Eagles coach Eliya Kananji said his troops are not intimidated ahead of the clash.
“We know Karonga are a good team but we will not give them respect on the pitch. The players know the importance of the match. We will make life difficult for them,’’ Kananji said.
Despite playing in the second-tier, Eagles have quality in abundance in their squad.
Captain Schumacher Kuwali, Micium Mhone, Paul Master and Tonic Viyuyi can cause problems on a good day as the police side seeks to progress.
On the other hand, Karonga are heading into the match with a spring in their step having knocked out last year’s runners-up Mafco after beating them 2-1 at their own backyard- Chitowe Stadium.
Karonga coach Oscar Kaunda told his charges to double their efforts against Eagles.
“This is a very crucial match for us. We have to go with a good mentality so that we win the match,’’ Kaunda said.
Kaunda has plenty of weapons including Blessings Mwalilino and Nanison Mbewe.
FDH Bank increased this year’s sponsorship to K150 million from K120 million.
Silver won the inaugural edition in 2021 but Bullets have won it back-to-back from 2022 to 2023.
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