Rachael Kaphaizi

Civil Service United has made a triumphant entry into the Airtel Top 8 semi-finals after a three year absence. They secured their spot with a convincing 4-0 win over the slowly-fading Mzuzu City Hammers at Civo Stadium.

Civil, as they are popularly known, last played in the semi-finals in 2021 when they bowed down to Silver Strikers by a 2-0 margin.

Dastan Banda opened the scoring in the 10th minute and 26 minutes later, ever-smiling Muhammad Biason doubled the lead before Blessings Malinda made it 3-0 in the 40th minute, paving way for Captain Damiano Kunje to seal the win with a goal in the 90+3 minute.

Civil coach Abbas Makawa thanked his players for following their game plan and said he is happy with the result.

On the other hand, Mzuzu City Hammers team manager Lazarus Nyemera encouraged their supporters to not lose hope.

Malinda was voted man of the match after an outstanding performance for Civil Service United. He scored a goal and provided assists for Biason’s strike and Banda’s goal.

If Silver Strikers win against Moyale Barracks on Sunday afternoon then history will repeat itself as we will have another Lilongwe derby in the Airtel Top 8 semi-finals, just like in 2021.