Zambia Super League champions Power Dynamos recorded their first victory of the transitional season after edging Nchanga Rangers 1-0 at Arthur Davis Stadium.
The home side marked their first home game of the campaign with a win in front of a fully packed stadium, as the Aba Yellow faithful turned out in numbers to cheer on their team. Dynamos started on a high note, pressing forward in search of an early breakthrough and creating several scoring opportunities. However, Nchanga Rangers goalkeeper Victor Chabu produced a series of good saves to keep the visitors in the game.
The breakthrough eventually came in the 14th minute when Andy Boyeli was fouled at the edge of the 18-yard box, earning Power Dynamos a free kick. Mutale took responsibility for the set-piece, delivering a ball that met Vicot Chabu and slipped through his palms to put the hosts 1-0 ahead.
Dynamos suffered an injury setback in the 37th minute when Fredrik Mulambia collided with a Nchanga Rangers player before making contact with centre referee Chanshi Kasongo. After being assessed by the team medics, Mulambia was unable to continue and was replaced by Ronnel Manyanga.
The hosts maintained their slender advantage heading into the break, leading 1-0 at half-time. Dynamos continued to push for more goals after the restart, with Head Coach Osward Mutapa making changes to freshen up the team.
In the 69th minute, Evans Ogbonda and Linos Makwaza Jr were introduced in place of Jackson Mulambia and Daniel Adoko, respectively. Further changes followed in the 84th minute, with Amine Hiver and Fabrice Ndeh replacing Andy Boyeli and Wilson Chisala.
Despite creating more opportunities in the second half, Dynamos were unable to add to their tally. However, Mutale’s first-half goal proved decisive as the hosts held on to secure all three points and register their first win of the transitional season.
