By Wellington Sibale
Neno, January 27, Mana: The much-anticipated FAM Cup was officially launched in Neno District on Sunday at the Neno Community Ground with a thrilling opening match between Neno United and Hungry Hunters that ended in a 1-all stalemate.
The tournament features 14 teams divided into three zones: Ligowe Zone with four teams, Chikonde Zone with four teams, and Lisungwi Zone with six teams. Each zone will host matches every weekend as teams battle for district supremacy.
Speaking during the launch, Neno District Football Association (NDFA) General Secretary, Austin Kumwenda expressed satisfaction with the start of the tournament.
"For us, we are happy that the games here in Chikonde have started. The games already started in Lisungwi zone and they are in the second week of the FAM Cup, but here in Chikonde, this is our first week. In Ligowe, we are going to kick off the games this weekend," said Kumwenda.
He further emphasized the importance of community support, urging residents to attend the matches.
“The FAM Cup is being played in three zones, Lisungwi, Ligowe, and Chikonde, and people should expect games every weekend. We hope to have a successful season, free from violence and produce good players who can play for big teams and we appeal to the communities to patronize these games," Kumwenda said.
He said the stakes are high, with the district champion set to take home MK1 million in prize money and the runner-up will receive MK400,000, while the third-place team will get MK300,000.
Kumwenda expressed optimism about the competition's positive impact, adding that no violence has been recorded so far.
Despite a late start in Neno due to delayed communication and initial reluctance from some teams, Kumwenda is confident that the district will catch up with others already deep into the tournament.
He said with matches lined up every weekend across the three zones, the FAM Cup promises to deliver thrilling football action in Neno District while fostering talent and unity among the local communities.
