Africa-Press – Malawi. There was pomp, colour and excitement as the inaugural NBS Bank National Division League rolled into life at Mchinji Community Ground in Mchinji District on Saturday.
People from all walks of life braved chilly weather to watch the inaugural match between Mchinji Villa and Mitundu Baptist, which the latter won 4-0.
Indeed, it was an occasion befitting the launch of the league.
The two teams did not only open the second-tier league but delivered a strong football show which mesmerised the huge crowd.
Mitundu winger Josophat ‘Gosogoso’ Kwalira etched his name in the history books of the league when he netted the first goal after 15 minutes.
But it was his teammate Rahim Mtondera who grabbed all the headlines when he scored the first hat-trick in the league.
Shamunia Watch for Villa had a chance to score a consolation goal but saw his spot kick saved by Dyson Gama.
Speaking at the event, Football Association of Malawi (Fam) President Fleetwood Haiya said the league had the potential to unearth talent.
“This is a milestone as we want to transform football in Malawi. The league is a good platform for the players to showcase their skills and talent,” Haiya said.
NBS Bank is sponsoring the league to the tune of K1 billion for a period of three years.
Through the sponsorship, Fam is providing K15 million to each of the 12 teams that are participating in the league.
On her part, NBS Bank Chief Retail Banking Officer Victoria Chanza said the bank was proud to be associated with the development of football in the country.
“We are very satisfied with how we have kick started the league. We, as a bank, are excited and the fans, too, are happy. We want to reach out to all Malawians because we know that it [the game] is loved by many people,” she said.
Twelve teams are taking part in the competition.
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