The 2025/26 ZPL National League kicked off on August 16th with seven matches across the country, delivering a blend of goalless battles, narrow victories, and one standout result from Kafue.
Trident and Indeni FC opened their campaigns with a 0-0 draw, while Kitwe United and Ndola United also shared spoils in a scoreless Copperbelt derby. Jumulo FC managed a 1-1 draw against Locus, with Kasuba Mulenga’s equalizer canceling Austin Mwansa’s early strike.
The day’s biggest story came in Kafue, where Kafue Celtics edged Aguila Stars 3-2 in the weekend’s only high-scoring clash. Goals from Herbert Mutalenge and Elvis Mulenga, aided by a Clement Luyipa own goal, were enough to overcome strikes from Kalaolamanda Sichivula and Kebby Nyanyaja. The result gave Celtics the biggest win margin of the day and early momentum in the new campaign.
Other fixtures saw Chirundu United stun River Plate 1-0 with Philimon Chilimina’s 10th-minute effort proving decisive. Roan United, powered by a Clifford Hamunkoyo brace, beat Mpulungu Harbour 2-1 despite a late fightback. Meanwhile, Forest Rangers left it late but grabbed full points thanks to Hope Katwishi’s 82nd-minute goal against Lumwana Radiants.
With Week 1 wrapped up, the National League has already shown signs of a tight contest ahead. For now, it’s Kafue Celtics who take the early bragging rights with the biggest victory on opening day.
