Coach Eliya Kananji is confident that Creck Sporting can defend the FDH Bank Cup title as a new challenge begins this Sunday afternoon.

Creck Sporting will kick off their FDH Bank Cup Round of 32 campaign against Dedza Dynamos at Dedza Stadium.

“Despite finishing the first league games with a low performance, our preparations have shown positives. The boys are now showing me they have the capabilities to reach the next level,” said Kananji.

Addressing concerns about our league performance, Kananji emphasized the need for defensive solidity going forward.

“The approach will be different. What we need most is not to concede, especially from set pieces. Our aim is to score and take advantage of every chance we get,” he explained.

Kananji is eager to retain the trophy after winning it last year with Blue Eagles, beating FCB Nyasa Big Bullets 4-3 on post-match penalties.

“It is my wish to defend this championship after winning it with Blue Eagles, but it will not be easy. One game at a time as our focus now is to beat Dedza and progress to the next round,” said the gaffer.

This year’s FDH Bank Cup champions will pocket MK45 million, with runners-up receiving MK20 million and semi-finalists MK8 million each.

FDH Bank plc, the tournament’s sponsors, have increased the total prize pool from MK150 million to MK250 million.