ZB inject more cash 

…as Power Dynamos and Forest Rangers relaunch rivalry in Charity Shield 

By MICHAEL MIYOBA

ZAMBIAN Breweries (ZB) have unveiled a K3.18 million sponsorship package as co-sponsors of the MTN/FAZ Super League for the 2023/2024 football season.

And Power Dynamos and Forest Rangers gaffers, Mwenya Chipepo and Ian Bakala have declared their charges ready for today’s much anticipated Carling Black Label Samuel “Zoom” Ndhlovu Charity Shield clash slated for Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Speaking during yesterday’s pre-match presser, ZB head of marketing, Thelma Kaonga reaffirmed Zambian Breweries’ commitment to maintain its partnership with the FAZ through the sponsorship of the Charity Shield and the Super League.

“We are thrilled to announce that we will continue our partnership with the Football Association of Zambia through the Zambia Premier League for 2023 to 2024 with a sponsorship value of K3.18 million, we are investing in the growth and development of Zambian football at all levels,” Kaonga said.

“This sponsorship is about uplifting the champions of football and reward their dedication, drive and excellence on and off the pitch,” she added.

She said the Charity Shield would give fans the opportunity to be part of the game by actively changing the course of the game, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Kaonga said over 107, 000 votes had been recorded as fans dictated who will start in the starting 11 from either side as the two face off today.

She said Zambian Breweries is immensely proud to support an initiative that not only celebrates football but also serves a noble cause as it is an opportunity for the company to give back to the community.

Meanwhile, Forest Rangers coach Bakala said Rangers were prepared to face the Zambian champions who they defeated 2-1 the last time the two sides faced off.

Bakala however noted the need for Zambian Breweries to next time consider adjusting the player selection period by the fans for the coaches to have enough time to plan for the game.

Power Dynamos coach Chipepo said his charges were looking forward to play after preparing adequately for the match and were determined to avenge the 2-1 defeat which crushed their hopes of winning a double last season.

“We are very happy and looking forward to play Forest Rangers. We have prepared very well and we must make sure that we beat Forest Rangers. They are the ones who booted us out of the ABSA Cup, they are a good side, very good players with a very good coach so we are not going to play a small team, it is not going to be easy but we have prepared ourselves,” Chipepo said.

Today’s curtain raiser signifies the launch of the new football season which promises sparks as Power Dynamos will be aiming to defend their title as champions of Zambia.