Zambia: Super League action is all set to finish their first half of the season against Mutondo Stars at Nkoloma Stadium.
Following the 2-1 home setback to the Green Eagles, Arrows will be trying to get back on track and confirm participation in the ABSA CUP 2024.
Mutondo is also in the running for the ABSA CUP and will be looking for a win in order to qualify for their maiden appearance.
They are coming off a great win over ZANACO and will be travelling with a lot of confidence. It is Arrows’ first time to play against Mutondo Stars in all competitions; as such, they expect a highly entertaining game due to the styles of football that both sides bring to the game.
Mutondo Stars are eighth on the log and have the potential to move up to fourth if they win and other results go their way ahead of the weekend, courtesy of three straight wins over Kansanshi Dynamos, Kabwe Warriors, and ZANACO.
Chisi Mbewe knows what to expect in this match. He is determined to win and put an end to the inconsistency that he has mentioned several times. He also understands what to expect from the team coached by Zeddy Saileti.
While this change in approach is still a work in progress, we have already noticed a significant increase in the number of times Mutondo Stars regain possession in advanced areas. They will push aggressively inside the final third and are strong at counter-attacking.
Chisi Mbewe wants his players to get tight and follow their opponents into different areas of the pitch. His central defenders need to be alert all the time and occasionally track a striker into midfield, while central midfielders may push out wide or high up the pitch. This strategy can smother teams that want to play out from the back, but it also leaves gaps that can be exploited.
Mutondo’s high defensive line has been exposed on multiple instances, which the Airmen may take advantage of, and with the likes of ball-playing Arrows midfielders, they can score as many as three from such. If there is one area where the Red Arrows can punish the visitors, it is their defence, which has already conceded 17 goals and scored none.
It is the first visit by Mutondo to Nkoloma; it’s a Friday, and a Christmas holiday ahead; who wants to go home early? The Airmen have to work it out and makeup.
