Zesco United look to get back to winning ways

Leaders Zesco United will hope to get back to winning ways when they host fifth-placed Nkwazi in the MTN Super League on Saturday, having slipped to a surprise loss last weekend.

Nkwazi have troubles of their own having lost two in a row, which has led to the sacking of Osward Mutapa.

He has been replaced by interim coach Dennis Makinka, though the latter is away completing his Caf A License and so assistant Keegan Phiri is likely to be in charge this weekend.

Zesco lost 1-0 at relegation-threatened Prison Leopards last time out, but have not lost two in a row since March, after which their form turned for the better.

Nkwazi won the reverse fixture 1-0 in September, and have generally gone OK against Zesco in the league. In the last 28 meetings, the latter lead the head-to-head 9-8 and there have been nine draws.

Second-placed Red Arrows host unpredictable Forest Rangers seeking a fourth successive victory, form that has seen them shoot up the table.

Rangers have yet to win away this season (D6 L4) and it seems unlikely that will change this weekend.

Nkana FC could potentially move out of the relegation zone when they host Green Eagles. Nkana’s troubles have been scoring at home, they have seven goals in nine games this season, and only 13 in 19 games overall.

Their last home win over Eagles came in 2010, with the latter having won the last two meetings 1-0.

The bottom side Trident will go in search of a first win of the season at the 20th attempt as they travel to Zanaco. Trident have taken more points on the road than at home this season, but this remains a tough ask.

In other matches on Saturday, Mutondo Stars welcome FC Muza, Prison Leopards go to Green Buffaloes and Kabwe Warriors welcome Mufulira Wanderers.

There is also a game on Sunday as Kansanshi Dynamos welcome Napsa Stars.

Third-placed Power Dynamos are in action on Friday when they host mid-table Konkola Blades. The defending champions are looking for a third straight win.