Nkana was crowned champions of the FAZ/MTN Zambia Super League after their closest challengers Forest Rangers drew 0-0 against ZANACO at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Sunday.
Rangers, who went into the game one point behind Nkana, needed to win the match as a draw would have handed Nkana the title due to their superior goal difference.
Rangers, who were seeking their maiden title, had been handed a lifeline on Friday after they successfully appealed against a decision by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) to award ZANACO a 3-0 in the initial game.
As a result of the draw, Nkana and Rangers finished level on 50 points but a better goal difference of +17 compared to +13 meant Nkana claimed a record-extending 13th league title.
All other matters relating to the league had been decided after the conclusion of matches with the exception of the league winners following the ruling in favour of Rangers.
Zambian President Edgar Lungu took to social media to congratulate Nkana on their triumph.
“Congratulations to the 2019/2020 champions – Nkana F.C. A 13th Super League title is no mean achievement at all. Let me also call on other football clubs in the country to continue working hard. You, too, can count on my support as your FAZ Patron. Let us all work hard to grow the sport amidst COVID-19 challenges.”
FAZ elected to end the season early after the 27th round of games after clubs failed to adhere to COVID-19 protocols. FAZ set a tentative date of October 17 to start the 2020/2021 season when it hopes to have implemented stricter protocols.
