Hammers Stun Nomads to End Super League Unbeaten Run

Mzuzu City Hammers came from a goal down to end Mighty Wanderers’ unbeaten run with a 2-1 victory in a TNM Super League match played on Wednesday at Mzuzu Stadium.

Relegation-threatened Hammers missed a golden opportunity just 15 seconds into the game when an unmarked Samson Olatubosun failed to score with only goalkeeper Richard Nkungwa to beat, directing his shot straight into the keeper’s palms.

The visitors settled quicker and launched several attacks, shooting from all possible angles. In the 11th minute, Timothy Silwimba’s effort missed the upright by inches, followed by a header from Wallace Adam that also went wide two minutes later. Tiery Sama came close as well, but his attempt was kept out by Hammers goalkeeper Mwakisambwe. Minutes later, his header went over the bar.

The home side responded with a counterattack, but Olatubosun failed to convert once again, shooting aimlessly wide. The first half ended goalless.

Drama unfolded in the tunnel before the second half when an unknown spectator splashed a liquid substance on the Hammers’ goalkeeper, causing a brief delay as he received medical attention.

Both sides started the second half with renewed energy. The visitors, known for impactful substitutions, introduced midfielder Blessings Singini for Rajab Nyirenda at the hour mark. The hosts responded with a double substitution, bringing in Isaac Msiska and Chimwemwe Chunga for Moses Gwayi and Hassan Luwembe.

A well-delivered cross from overlapping defender Timothy Silwimba found Promise Kamwendo, whose header beat the Hammers goalkeeper to give Wanderers the lead in the 55th minute. However, the hosts equalised in the 73rd minute through Samson Olatubosun, who capitalised on a well-taken free kick by Madalitso Safuli.

Nomads made another double substitution, bringing off youngsters Wallace Adam and Dan Kudonto for Blessings Mwalilino and Lawrence Chaziya, but the changes had little impact. Mwalilino missed a clear chance when he headed over the bar from another impressive Silwimba delivery. Captain Felix Zulu also failed to restore the lead when he shot over the bar after finding a loose ball in the box, much to the frustration of the travelling supporters.

Just when the match seemed destined for a 1–1 draw, Isaiah Nyirenda scored a vital goal in the seventh minute of added time, pouncing on a rebound after Safuli’s shot was fumbled, handing Wanderers their first defeat of the season.

Mighty Wanderers head coach Bob Mpinganjira lamented his team’s missed opportunities but remained optimistic about the title race.

“We played well but failed to utilise chances, and we were punished for that. It is tough now, but we will work on our shortfalls. We still have chances to clinch the league,” said Mpinganjira.

Mzuzu City Hammers coach Elias Chirambo praised his players’ resilience and fighting spirit.

“My boys worked so hard today. Good fighting spirit, and this gives us hope that we will survive the chop,” said Chirambo.

The loss means Mighty Wanderers missed the chance to displace fellow title contenders Nyasa Big Bullets, who remain top of the table on goal difference. Both teams are tied on 56 points from 25 games. Hammers move one place up to 14th with 27 points from 27 matches.

A minute of silence was observed across all matches in honour of Flames legend Esau Kanyenda, who passed away on Tuesday in the United Kingdom.

Other Results:

Chitipa United came from two goals down to stun relegation-bound Mighty Tigers 3–2 at Chitipa Stadium.

Mafco defeated relegated Songwe Border 2–0.

Civil Service United and Dedza Dynamos played out a goalless draw.