Ekhaya FC continued their impressive Castel Challenge Cup run after grinding out a 1–0 victory over Shire Wimbe FC to secure qualification to the quarter-finals in a fiercely contested Round of 16 tie on Saturday afternoon.
Moses Banda struck at the half-hour mark and The Cowboys went on to see out the match.
What happened
The encounter was played under challenging conditions after heavy rainfall before kickoff left the pitch muddy and uneven, disrupting rhythm and limiting clear scoring opportunities.
Both sides struggled to impose themselves in the opening exchanges, with the ball often holding up on the surface and passes failing to reach their targets.
Despite the scrappy nature of the contest, Ekhaya FC showed greater composure when it mattered most. In the 30th minute, a rare moment of clarity produced the decisive goal.
Clever Chikwata unlocked the Shire Wimbe defence with a perfectly timed pass, allowing Moses Banda to strike decisively and give The Cowboys a vital advantage heading into the interval.
The hosts returned for the second period with renewed urgency, committing more players forward as they searched for a way back into the tie. Shire Wimbe FC increased the tempo and territorial pressure, forcing Ekhaya FC to absorb sustained spells of attack.
The Cowboys responded with a disciplined defensive display, winning crucial second balls and remaining compact as the game became increasingly physical.
As the final ten minutes approached, the intensity rose further, but Ekhaya FC’s backline and midfield worked tirelessly to close down space and see out the match, ensuring Moses Banda’s first-half effort remained the difference.
What it means
The result means Ekhaya FC advance to the last eight of the Castel Challenge Cup, keeping their hopes alive in the competition.
What the coach
" A very tough match played under difficult conditions, considering that we played on a muddy and water-logged pitch for our passing football. All in all that is the nature of cup games, we have won it."
What next
Attention now shifts to the quarter-final draw, scheduled for tomorrow, where The Cowboys will learn their next opponents as they look to continue their cup journey.
