Frank Mojah Dzuwa
Chilobwe United were crowned SRFA ThumbsUp Premier League 2025 champions after defeating Nsanje United 1–0 in a decisive encounter played on Saturday afternoon at Nsanje Youth Centre.
The match was settled by a second—half goal from Hanif Jafali, a strike that sealed the victory and confirmed Chilobwe United’s promotion to the National Division League.
Chilobwe finished the season top of the table with 62 points from 30 matches, recording 18 wins, eight draws and four losses—a campaign that earned them the league title and promotion to the National Division League.
Head coach Jimmy Chikulekule said the title came through collective effort and consistency across the season. He added that the club plans to strengthen the squad ahead of the National Division League, which presents a higher level of competition.
“Winning the league is not easy. As we prepare for the National Division League, we will bring in a few players because it is a tougher competition and we want to compete well,” said Chikulekule.
Meanwhile, Nsanje United head coach Duncan Khofi said relegation from the ThumbsUp Premier League was disappointing but noted that the team had drawn important lessons from a difficult campaign.
“The season was challenging, especially due to a poor start and financial difficulties. However, we have learned a lot and will work on our weaknesses as we prepare to return from the Division One League,” said Khofi.
SRFA chairperson Dyless Kachala said the 2025 season concluded successfully and congratulated Chilobwe United on securing the league title, wishing the club well in the National Division League.
At the bottom of the table, Nsanje United and Tigers Reserve were relegated from the ThumbsUp Premier League 2025 season.
Founded in 2024, Chilobwe United have become the second team in SRFA history to win two league titles in successive seasons, having also lifted the SRFA Betika Division One League trophy last season.
Ekhaya FC remain the first club to achieve the feat after winning the SRFA FAM Moto Division One League in 2023 and the ThumbsUp Premier League title in 2024.
