The 2025 ABSA Cup semifinals will take place as originally scheduled at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, following a joint announcement by ABSA Bank Zambia and the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ).
This comes after an earlier decision to move the semifinal double-header to Railway Stadium in Kabwe, a move that was prompted by safety concerns following recent crowd trouble at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. The concerns stemmed from the Kitwe derby between Nkana FC and Power Dynamos—both semifinalists in the ABSA Cup—where unruly fan behavior resulted in the reported damage of over 500 seats. The heated match ended in a 1-1 draw on Sunday.
In a statement, the two organizations said that after reviewing the situation and consulting with relevant stakeholders, they were confident that necessary measures could be implemented to ensure the safety of fans, players, and officials at the original venue.
“Following the incidence that occurred during the recent Zambia Premier League fixture involving Nkana FC and Power Dynamos, a comprehensive review was undertaken,” the statement read. “We are satisfied that the enhanced security and operational plans will provide a safe environment for the 2025 ABSA Cup semifinals.”
The semifinal double-header is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, and will feature four top teams battling for a place in the prestigious cup final. Both FAZ and ABSA emphasized their commitment to maintaining high standards of security and fan conduct at major football events.
FAZ has also warned that any acts of hooliganism during the semifinals will be met with firm disciplinary action.
With the venue confirmed, attention now shifts to preparations on and off the pitch as fans gear up for what promises to be a thrilling day of Zambian football.