Harambee Stars' Ian Otieno prepares for Ndola Derby as Zesco United and Forest Rangers vie for city bragging rights.
Harambee Stars goalkeeper Ian Otieno is poised to play a pivotal role for his side Zesco United when they go head-to-head against Forest Rangers in the highly anticipated Ndola Derby this Saturday at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
Otieno, who has been working tirelessly to regain his position both at the club and national team levels after spending much of the previous season on the bench, enters the match on a high note following his instrumental role in Zesco United's 3-1 victory over FC Muza last weekend.
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Last season's derby witnessed a fierce showdown between the two Ndola favorites, resulting in a goalless draw in the first leg played at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, followed by Zesco United claiming victory with a 1-0 scoreline over Forest Rangers in the return match at the Dola Hill Stadium.
As both teams come into this weekend's fixture fresh from their wins, Zesco United currently holds the top position in the league with 28 points, while Forest Rangers stands at the 10th spot with 18 points.
Zesco boasts an impressive record of 8 wins, 4 draws, and just 2 losses through week 14, while Forest has secured 4 wins, 6 draws, and suffered 4 losses.
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Heading into Zambia Super League week-15, both teams are eager to extend their winning streaks and secure maximum points, all while vying for the coveted city's bragging rights.
Coach George Lwandamina's Zesco side has remained unbeaten in their last four games, with their most recent triumph coming against FC Muza, Sweetest Town's favorites.
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They convincingly defeated FC Muza 3-1, with Enock Sakala Jr. scoring a brace and Kelvin Mubanga Kampamba adding a goal to the tally, all in the opponent's backyard in Mazabuka.
Looking ahead to the Ndola Derby, Zega Mambo, as Zesco United is fondly known, aims to extend their unbeaten streak to five games and solidify their position in the ABSA CUP slot.
In an interview with the Zesco United 's media team, assistant coach Tenant Chilumba shared his thoughts on the upcoming derby, stating, "It's always difficult when you are playing a derby game, but looking at the current performance of our team, I think we have that bigger advantage."
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In a pre-match interview, Enock Sakala Jr., hailed as the "King of Brace," urged fans to turn up in large numbers to witness the exciting clash.
He said, "I think it's going to be a very good derby, you know Ndola Derby. I am not promising them a brace or hat-trick, but they should expect a very good and entertaining game."
Both teams have not only shared players and coaches over the years but also the vibrant city of Ndola itself.
The burning question of who will claim the ultimate bragging rights in the city will be answered this Saturday during the Ndola Derby's thrilling 90 minutes at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 5pm East Africa time.
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