Absa Cup 2024: New Format, Increased Prize Money, and Exciting Draw

20.03.2024 | Football in my DNA

The Absa Cup 2024 is set to make waves with its revamped format, expanded lineup of teams, and increased sponsorship, bringing a total of K5.5 million to the table.

New Format and Expanded Lineup

Under the new format, the tournament will now feature 21 teams, including 10 provincial teams, seven MTN Super League teams, and four FAZ National Division One teams. The round of 16 will see 10 provincial teams added prior to the quarter-finals.

Defending champions Forest Rangers miss out on the expanded format after finishing outside the top seven as of Week 17.

Increased Prize Money and Awards

The winner of the Absa Cup 2024 will walk away with K800,000, an increase from last year's K700,000. The runner-up will receive K350,000.

Additionally, Absa Life will sponsor the Player of the Tournament, Top Scorer, and Golden Glove awards, each worth K25,000. Zamtel will sponsor the Man of the Match awards, with K15,000 awarded from the quarter-finals onwards and K5,000 for the preliminary rounds.

Travel Subsidy and Support

Absa has also added a travel subsidy for each team, ranging from 15 to 30, with a bias towards supporting provincial teams. This subsidy considers the distance teams will travel to match venues.

Words from Absa and FAZ

Absa Chief Financial Officer Venus Hampinda emphasized the importance of unity and excellence through the Absa Cup, highlighting the bank's commitment to empowering individuals.

FAZ president Andrew Kamanga expressed gratitude to Absa Bank for its unwavering support over the years and highlighted the positive impact of the tournament on footballers and clubs.

Support from Multichoice

Multichoice Head Operations – Support Recha Karima-Kabwe expressed excitement about partnering with FAZ, Absa, and other stakeholders to bring joy and unity through football matches broadcasted on SuperSport.

Conclusion

With the Absa Cup 2024 set to kick off, anticipation is high as teams prepare to compete for glory, with the tournament serving as a platform for talent development and grassroots football revolution in Zambia.

Key Dates

• First Round Provincial Matches: March 23-24, 2024

• Round of 16: Easter Weekend

• Quarter-Finals: April 13-14, 2024 (Copperbelt)

• Semi-Finals: April 27-28, 2024 (Lusaka)

• Finals: May 7, 2024 (Copperbelt)

Credit: FAZ