MTN Super League returns this weekend

The Zambian MTN Super League makes a return this weekend after a month-long break for the Africa Cup of Nations finals, with ZESCO United defending a narrow one-point advantage over second-placed Red Arrows.

Those two have created a gap at the top of the table with defending champions Power Dynamos in third, but five points adrift and with plenty of work to do to retain their title.

ZESCO start with a trip to mid-table Konkola Blades on Saturday, a side who have won only two of their 10 home games (D6 L2) this season, the third worst record in the league.

Blades are unbeaten since November though, with three wins and six draws in their nine games since then, so will be a tough nut to crack.

It is fair to say that ZESCO have dominated fixtures between the sides in recent times, with eight wins and a draw in their last nine meetings, with no away defeat at Blades since 2011.

Red Arrows travel to bottom side Trident, who are still seeking their first win of the season after 20 rounds. The promoted club have 10 wins and 10 losses so far, and have lost each of their last five games.

Arrows won the home tie 2-0 when they met in September and will expect a similar result again.

Power Dynamos travel to fourth-placed Green Eagles on Sunday, with both sides hoping for a slip-up from the front two that will allow them to close the gap.

Dynamos had a poor start to the campaign but are back on track after a single defeat since October, while Eagles have been inconsistent, they have lost their last two home games but won their last three away.

Dynamos have not won at Eagles since 2012, so the odds are stacked against them.

Nkana FC are five points from safety in the relegation zone and will be desperate to pull themselves out of trouble as soon as possible, rather than leave it late in the season.

They have a tough way trip to FC MUZA, who along with Blades and Trident have a division high 10 draws this season. Nkana have been better on the road than at home this season so there is hope for them.

In other matches on Saturday, NAPSA Stars welcome Kabwe Warriors, Green Buffaloes go to Nkwazi FC, Prison Leopards welcome Kansanshi Dynamos, Zanaco are at Mufulira Wanderers and Mutondo stars go to Forest Rangers.