All is set for the official launch of the third edition of the Castel Challenge Cup, this Saturday, August 9, at the newly inaugurated Nsanje Community Centre Ground.
The launch event will feature a ceremonial match between Nsanje’s fierce district rivals — Umodzi FC and Nsanje Medicals — adding excitement to what promises to be a memorable kickoff.
Official matches in the Preliminary Round at both District and Regional levels will also begin this weekend across the country.
Speaking ahead of the launch, FAM Competitions and Communications Director Gomezgani Zakazaka confirmed that all preparations are complete:
“We can confirm that we are heading to the Lower Shire to unveil this year’s competition. In 2023, we launched in Rumphi in the Northern Region, and last year we were in Mponela in the Central Region.
This year, we’re proud to take it to the Southern Region — to the newly rehabilitated Nsanje Youth Centre. As usual, we look forward to an exciting tournament.”
Castel Malawi’s Head of Product Development & Marketing Strategy, Frank Binauli, emphasized the tournament’s broader impact:
“As we kick off the third edition of the Castel Challenge Cup this Saturday, we celebrate more than just football — we celebrate passion, unity, and the spirit of competition that connects communities across Malawi.
At Castel Malawi, we are committed to youth development and creating platforms that inspire dreams. This partnership with FAM reflects our dedication to national development, youth empowerment, and the beautiful game that unites us all.”
He added:
“We started in Rumphi, went to Mponela, and now we’re excited to bring the action to Nsanje, engaging our Southern Region consumers. With the power of our flagship brand, Castel Beer, we anticipate another thrilling season where champions are made and legends are born.”
Competition Format
The Castel Challenge Cup will be played in two phases: the Preliminary Phase and the National Phase.
Preliminary Phase
This phase will unfold in three stages:
- District Phase: Local teams compete to become district champions.
- Regional League Phase: Premier and Division One teams face off in knockout matches.
- Regional Playoffs: District champions, regional league qualifiers, and national division league teams battle for spots in the National Phase.
Each region will contribute a set number of teams to the National Phase:
- Eastern Region – 3 teams
- Central Region – 4 teams
- Northern Region – 5 teams
- Southern Region – 4 teams
These 16 qualifying teams will join the 16 Super League teams in the final National Phase.
Defending Champions
Mighty Wanderers will enter this year’s competition as defending champions, having defeated Mzuzu City Hammers 1-0 in last year’s final.
For more updates, follow FAM and Castel Malawi social media pages or visit participating match venues throughout the season.
