New MTN Super League champions Red Arrows head coach Chisi Mbewe is delighted with his side’s successes this season.
The Zambia Air Force-sponsored side completed its domestic double on Saturday as they rallied to a narrow 1-0 victory over Zanaco in a Week 32 fixture played at the Nkoloma Stadium to claim its third Super League title two weeks after hoisting the ABSA Cup.
Speaking to journalists after Saturday’s important victory, Mbewe said he and the entire club were impressed and satisfied with his team’s performance in the 2023/24 season.
“We give all the glory to God for this massive achievement this season. I think it has been a great season for everyone, for the players it, technical staff, the supporters and our sponsors. We are happy with the way we have performed this season because we had set goals that we wanted to attain, which were winning the league and the ABSA Cup,” Mbewe told reporters.
He added, “We have always reminded the players about how important it is to win trophies because there will always be a reward at the end, so once again, we are happy with the way we have performed this season.”
After winning the Super League, the Airmen confirmed their place in next season’s CAF Champions League competition.
Mbewe said his side will focus on preparing adequately rather than being discouraged by their past unsuccessful campaigns in continental football.
“We are now going into the Champions League. I know there will be a lot of talk. We have already heard some saying that when Red Arrows play continental football, they do not go far, but this is football, we will keep trying until we achieve our goals. For us to achieve a double today, it has just not come to be. We have been trying and failing, but eventually, it has come, and going into the Champions League, we will fight, and we will prepare then see how far that will take us,” he said.
Midfielder Ackim Mumba’s second-minute goal against Zanaco was enough to steer Mbewe’s charges to victory on the day and ultimately secured the league title with two matches to spare.
The Airmen opened an unassailable 11-point lead over second-placed ZESCO United on the Super League table. They moved to 67 points to complete their domestic double, having secured their first silverware in the ABSA Cup with victory over Kabwe Warriors a fortnight ago.
Arrows face Green Eagles in their next match, which will be played in Choma. They will then travel to Kitwe for their coronation, which will follow their match against Mutondo Stars on Saturday, June 1.
Main Image : Bolanews
