Mumboha Ground in Luanda, Vihiga County, witnessed an exhilarating clash on Saturday afternoon as it marked the seasonal final fixture in the FKF Division One Zone B league and also the NSL knock.
The stakes were high as the chase for NSL promotion was on the line, with Zoo FC battling Luanda Villa, who enjoyed home advantage and the support of their passionate 12th fan base.
Before kick-off, Luanda Villa found themselves two points behind the league leader, Zoo FC, who had 58 points. A draw would guarantee Zoo FC’s direct promotion to the NSL, while the home team knew they needed all three points to secure their promotion and avoid the playoffs. Luanda Villa had an impressive record of not losing a single home game throughout the season.
The match began at a frenetic pace, with the home team enjoying possession in the opening minutes. However, Zoo FC quickly found their footing and balanced the proceedings. In the 36th minute, the home team broke the deadlock from a set-piece, as Doreck Otieno, one of the league’s top scorers, netted a header, granting Luanda Villa a 1-0 lead. The intense match continued, and at halftime, the hosts held their slender advantage.
Zoo FC’s top striker, Ggolola, put up a spirited effort, attempting to breach Villa’s defence with powerful headers. However, the home team’s keeper denied his attempts.
In the 70th minute, Zoo FC shifted their tactics, dominating the game and coming close to equalizing through their captain, Kefa.
As the match neared its conclusion, Luanda Villa effectively built a resilient defence, frustrating Zoo FC’s attacking efforts. Time-wasting tactics were employed to maintain their precious lead. When the final whistle blew, Villa’s fans erupted with joy, celebrating their promotion to the NSL league on their second attempt, having been eliminated in the playoffs in 2021.
With this result, Zoo FC will now face Nairobi United in the playoffs, which will take place at the Rvist Ground in Nakuru.
The thrilling showdown at Mumboha Ground will be remembered for the determination and resilience displayed by both teams as they battled for NSL glory.
