Power Dynamos have finished as runners up in the 2026 ABSA Cup after an impressive run across Zambia’s major football competitions.
Fresh from sealing the MTN Super League title in dominant fashion, Power entered the final hoping to crown an outstanding campaign with another trophy, but Red Arrows started strongly and controlled the early exchanges.
Goalkeeper Lawrence Mulenga was called into action early, making important saves to keep Power in the contest, while Aba Yellow’s first real attacking moment came in the 27th minute when Chifundo Mpasi released Moses Shumah down the flank, resulting in the team’s first corner.
Arrows broke the deadlock on the stroke of half time after Mulenga saved Joseph Phiri’s effort, only for Albert Kangwanda to react quickly and score in the 45th minute. Power nearly responded immediately, but Captain Prince Mumba failed to connect with a dangerous delivery in added time.
The second half did not start well for Power as Lazarus Chishimba capitalised on a defensive lapse in the 54th minute to double Arrows’ lead.
Coach Osward Mutapa later responded with attacking changes, introducing Eddie Ishmael Ankobo for Prince Mumba at half time, and later, Ronel Manyanga, Salulani Phiri and Evans Ogbonda on for Frederick Mulambia, Daniel Adoko and John Soko as Power searched for a way back into the match.
The MTN Super League champions pushed forward and came close through Innocent Kashita who forced an awkward save from Arrows goal Keeper Charles Kalimba before Ronnel Manyanga struck the upright with a powerful effort from the resulting loose ball.
Despite the setback, Power head Coach Osward Mutapa expressed pride in a memorable season that saw Power reach the CAF Champions League group stage, win the MTN Super League title with three games to spare and reach the ABSA Cup final, making Aba Yellow’s campaign one of the most impressive in recent Zambian football history.
