Civil Service United set up a capital city derby encounter against Silver Strikers in the FDH Bank Cup semifinals following a 2-1 victory over Mchinji Villa FC at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe Wednesday.
The quarterfinal match looked destined for the dreaded penalty shootouts after Shamiuna Watch scored for Villa in the 82nd minute as he cancelled out Damiano Kunje’s goal.
But Dastain Banda was the hero for Civil when he scored the winner in added time.
It was a crucial goal for Civil as they progressed to their first ever FDH Bank Cup semifinal since inception of the competition in 2021.
Civil would be looking for revenge against Silver, having lost 2-1 in the 2025 Airtel Top 8 semifinals.
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Silver, on the other hand, who defeated champions Blue agles 3-0, would be looking for a double over their rivals.
At Civo Stadium yesterday, player-of-the-match Damiano Kunje opened the scoring in the 15th minute when he bundled the ball into the net from close range after a cross from Vincent Chinoko.
After the goal, Villa upped their game, looking for an equaliser.
Civil goalkeeper Rahman John was forced to make a good save towards the end of the first half.
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It was a highly contested affair in the second half.
The equaliser came in 82nd minute as Watch made a run before beating John.
Sensing danger, Civil coach Abasi Makawa introduced John Black for Precious Chipungu with three minutes to full time.
But it was Banda who made headlines for good reasons when he scored the crucial goal in the 92nd minute. It was game over.
In post-match interview, Makawa admitted that Villa gave them a good run for their money.
“The players thought it would be a walkover but, after we conceded a goal, they raised their tempo,” Makawa said.
Villa coach Abel Mkandawire said his charges lost concentration.
“After we scored the equaliser, we relaxed. Civil took advantage of that and punished us,” he said.
The semifinals’ list will be completed this weekend as FCB Nyasa Big Bullets will host Kamuzu Barracks at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday whereas Mighty Wanderers will face Creck Sporting Club at Champion Stadium on Sunday.
The semifinals are expected to be played on November 1 before the final on November 9 at a venue to be announced.
