The Super League of Malawi (SULOM) regrets the unfortunate incident during the FDH Bank Premiership match between Masters FC and Karonga United at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Sunday, 18 October 2026, when the floodlights went off in the 78th minute, resulting in the abandonment of the match.

According to the incident reports, power was restored after 25 minutes, and the match officials and Match Coordinator made repeated efforts to have both teams resume play. However, Karonga United declined to return to the field despite these interventions, leading to the match being called off.

Application of the Rules and Regulations

Article 23.3 of the SULOM Rules and Regulations (2026) provides for procedures relating to match cancellation due to force majeure, including floodlight failure. Law 7.5 of the IFAB Laws of the Game provides that an abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules or organizers determine otherwise.

Having considered the incident reports, the restoration of the floodlights and Karonga United’s refusal to resume play, SULOM confirms that Masters FC are awarded three points, with the result recorded as a 3–0 victory in accordance with the forfeiture provisions of Article 23. Furthermore, Karonga United will be charged with causing the abandonment of the match and will be required to answer to the appropriate disciplinary authorities in accordance with the applicable regulations.

SULOM is continuing to investigate the cause of the floodlight failure and the adequacy of the venue’s backup power arrangements. The League will take any further action deemed necessary based on the findings.

SULOM will continue to uphold the integrity of the competition, strengthen match-day safety and operational standards, and ensure that all fixtures are conducted fairly and in accordance with the applicable Rules and Regulations and the Laws of the Game.