In a commanding display at Munis Queensmead on 22 February 2025, Real Madrinks triumphed over Libala Bullets with a resounding scoreline of 4-1. The match kicked off at 12:00pm, showcasing a thrilling encounter that highlighted the attacking prowess of the Madrinks while exposing defensive frailties in the Bullets' setup.
Real Madrinks lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, designed to maximise width and exploit the flanks. Vincent Kidiaba took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Smart Kasongo and Jordan B as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Nason Bwalya and Isaac Chipwatanga forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Uncle B operated on the right, with Desmond Mngawa in the centre and Yokonia Ngoma on the left, providing both creativity and support to the forwards. Up front, Mwenya Hudson and Nimrod Simuchimba flanked striker Brandon Imaata, who was tasked with leading the line and finishing chances.
The substitutes for Real Madrinks included Jala Pensulo, Micheal Mukuka, Isaac Bush, Bwalya John Kachamba, and Leonard Banda, who were poised to make an impact should the need arise.
The match began with both teams probing for an early advantage, but it was Libala Bullets who struck first, taking the lead in the 30th minute. The goal came as a shock to Real Madrinks, who had been enjoying a decent spell of possession. However, the Madrinks responded swiftly, equalising just five minutes later when Smart Kasongo found the net with a close-range effort, assisted by Jordan B. This goal shifted the momentum firmly in favour of Real Madrinks.
As the first half drew to a close, Real Madrinks made tactical adjustments, substituting Nason Bwalya for Jala Pensulo, and bringing on Micheal Mukuka for Mwenya Hudson. Additionally, Isaac Bush replaced Yokonia Ngoma, signalling a shift in strategy as they aimed to take control of the midfield.
The second half commenced with Real Madrinks looking to build on their momentum. In the 60th minute, Bwalya John Kachamba entered the fray, replacing Brandon Imaata. However, Kachamba found himself caught offside twice shortly after his introduction, first due to poor concentration and then from a mistimed run, both decisions correctly flagged by the assistant referee.
The breakthrough for Real Madrinks came in the 71st minute when Desmond Mngawa headed home from a corner, expertly delivered by Smart Kasongo. This goal further solidified their dominance, and the Bullets struggled to respond effectively.
As the match progressed, Real Madrinks continued to press, and in the 85th minute, Micheal Mukuka capitalised on a defensive mistake to score from close range, assisted by Nimrod Simuchimba. Mukuka was not done yet; just three minutes later, he scored again, this time with a stunning lob from outside the box, following a long pass from Smart Kasongo.
With the scoreline at 4-1, the match concluded with Real Madrinks firmly in control. The performance of Micheal Mukuka stood out, earning him the accolade of Player of the Match for his two goals and overall contribution to the team's success. The referee, Free, managed the game effectively, allowing the match to flow while keeping a firm grip on proceedings.
