By Andrew Mdzumira

Blue Eagles secured a place in the Airtel Top 8 semi-finals on the away goals rule, holding Civil Service United to a 1-1 draw in the second leg of their quarter-final at Civo Stadium on Saturday.

Civil Service United made a bright start and deservedly took the lead in the 29th minute. Righteous Banda started the move with a pass down the right flank to Maso, who found the overlapping full-back. His inviting cross into the penalty area was met by Saulos Moyo, who finished well to give the hosts a 1-0 lead at the break.

Blue Eagles responded immediately after the restart.

Just one minute into the second half, Micium Mhone capitalised on a defensive lapse in the Civil Service United box. He met a well-delivered cross, beat the goalkeeper and calmly slotted home to level the match at 1-1.

Neither side managed to find a winner in the remaining normal time, leaving many supporters anticipating a penalty shootout.

However, under the Airtel Top 8 competition rules, Blue Eagles progressed on away goals. The first leg ended goalless, but Blue Eagles’ away goal in the second leg proved decisive as they booked a place in the last four.

Blue Eagles will now face Ekhaya FC in the semi-finals. Ekhaya advanced after defeating FCB Nyasa Big Bullets 7-6 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the second leg. The tie finished 2-2 on aggregate, with the first leg at Bingu National Stadium also ending 1-1.