Ekhaya Youth continued their flying start to the 2025 FCB Blantyre District Football League campaign with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Yizo Yizo Warriors on Sunday morning at Chilomoni Stadium.
Despite trailing midway through the second half, the Under-19s rallied through a Chisomo Paika brace and a late Deepay Banda winner to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.
How It Happened
Arriving at the tie unbeaten in their opening three games, Mphatso Chihami’s boys showed early confidence and attacking intent. It didn’t take long before the breakthrough came, our number 10, Chisomo Paika, calmly slotted home to give Ekhaya a deserved lead.
But joy was short-lived. Just moments later, Yizo Yizo equalized through Jamilu Labana, who met a corner with a sharp near-post header to level matters.
Despite dominating possession and pushing for a second, Ekhaya couldn’t convert their chances before the half-time whistle, going into the break at 1-1.
The second half began with the same narrative: Ekhaya probing, Yizo Yizo sitting back. But against the run of play, the visitors took the lead on a rare counterattack, Goodson Gomba pounced on a defensive lapse and fired past the keeper in the 67th minute.
That setback sparked a spirited response. Just six minutes later, Paika struck again, this time turning and finishing low into the corner to make it 2-2.
With momentum on their side, Ekhaya pushed relentlessly in the closing stages. Substitute Deepay Banda emerged the hero, reacting fastest to a rebound from a blocked shot to slot home the decisive goal.
The boys managed the final minutes superbly, holding off late pressure to secure a hard-fought 3-2 win.
What It Means
The result keeps Ekhaya Youth unbeaten after four games, three wins and one draw, collecting 10 points and showcasing real character and growth in the process.
From the Dugout
“To win in this manner, it shows you that the boys are growing into a team that wants to win no matter what,” said head coach Mphatso Chihami after the final whistle.
Coming ahead
Ekhaya Youth will return to action next weekend when they host Mthutha Academy in their next league fixture. Another big test awaits.
