Blantyre giants Mighty Wanderers missed the chance to leapfrog FCB Nyasa Big Bullets at the TNM Super League summit after being held to a 1-1 draw in a tightly contested match against Karonga United, who had hoped to bounce back after consecutive defeats in the Airtel Top 8 and the league.

Both teams named strong starting lineups, each aiming for maximum points.

Wanderers drew first blood in the 28th minute through Gaddie Chirwa, who finished clinically to put his side ahead. However, their momentum was quickly interrupted after Peter Cholopi was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Zikani Mponda just minutes later, leaving the visitors to play with ten men.

Karonga United capitalized on their numerical advantage, equalizing in the 40th minute from the penalty spot. 
Alfred Chizinga stepped up and converted with composure to restore parity.

Despite being down a man for the majority of the match, Wanderers displayed admirable defensive discipline in the second half, frustrating Karonga United and limiting their scoring opportunities. Neither side managed to carve out clear-cut chances after the break, resulting in a stalemate.

Karonga United coach Osca Kaunda expressed satisfaction with the point, adding that fatigue from a congested schedule and long travels had impacted his squad.

“We played against Mighty Wanderers, not 10 players. This draw is very useful to us. Sometimes in football, the team with fewer players wins, but our opponent failed,” Kaunda said.

On the other hand, Mighty Wanderers coach Bob Mpinganjira praised his players for their resilience.
“My boys did a wonderful job defending up to the last whistle,” he said.

In another TNM Super League match, Mzuzu City Hammers and Chitipa United settled for a goalless draw.

As it stands, Mighty Wanderers are second on 23 points, just one behind leaders FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, while Karonga United sit fifth with 16 points.

Wanderers will next face Songwe Border United before returning to Blantyre.