Andrew Mdzumira

A sad moment for people of Mponela and other surrounding areas in Dowa district as strong wind accompanied by heavy rainfall on Saturday afternoon damaged several structures at Champion Stadium, raising concerns about the facility’s readiness to host upcoming football matches.

The storm, which started around 2:30 pm, brought intense rainfall and powerful winds that tore off sections of the roof covering the spectator stands. The damage affected areas used by fans and match officials.

Among the structures damaged were the VIP section, the technical area and substitute benches. Glass panels that sheltered players and technical staff were also shattered during the storm.

Champion Stadium manager, Kingsley Chingwalu, confirmed the incident to Wa Ganyu, attributing the damage to the strength of the winds that accompanied the rainstorm.

When Wa Ganyu visited the stadium, workers were busy clearing debris, including roofing sheets and metal materials that had been ripped from the affected structures.

The stadium had been scheduled to host a friendly match between Mponela FC and Silver Strikers Reserves, although the fixture had already been called off for unrelated reasons.

Another friendly match between Mponela FC, who compete in the Chipiku Central Region League, and Mbelwa Warriors from the Northern Region was scheduled to take place at the stadium on Sunday. However, following the damage, the match will no longer be played at Champion Stadium.

Champion Stadium serves as a home venue for Kamuzu Barracks and Mafco FC for  their FDH Bank Premiership fixtures.

With the development, people of Mponela will have to travel to Lilongwe, their nearest district, to watch games.