The Kitwe Derby also known as the El Kopala or Chibwe Derby is a widely regarded as the most intense and high-profile football rivalry in Zambia, pitting Power Dynamos against Nkana F.C.âÂÂtwo of the country's most successful and historic football clubs, both based in the city of Kitwe on the Copperbelt Province.
The fixture is a highlight of the Zambian football calendar and is frequently compared to major African derbies for its atmosphere, intensity, and cultural significance.
The rivalry gained prominence following Power Dynamosâ promotion to the Zambian top flight in 1979. Prior to that, local football rivalries in Kitwe mainly featured Nkana and Kitwe United. The Kitwe Derby is also affectionately known by names like "El Kopala" and "Chibwe Derby," reflecting local culture and the close-knit football community in the Copperbelt.
The derby is famous for its electrifying atmosphere, often drawing record-breaking crowds and generating massive interest across Zambia. Fans from across the Copperbelt and beyond travel to witness the match live, and local broadcasters and media provide extensive coverage.
The 2025 edition of the Kitwe Derby ended in drama and controversy. A late penalty awarded to Power Dynamos led to outrage among Nkana supporters, resulting in crowd trouble and vandalism. Over 500 stadium seats were reportedly damaged, and the Zambian government publicly condemned the violence.
Despite the tension, the match ended 1âÂÂ1 and was hailed for its competitive quality.
Since 2011, Power Dynamos have held a slight upper hand in the derby, with 16 wins compared to Nkana's 10, and 6 draws. In that time, 70 goals have been scoredâÂÂ42 by Power and 28 by Nkana. However, form is often considered irrelevant in this fixture, with both teams typically rising to the occasion regardless of their league standing.
<small>*Cups include Zambian Cup and ABSA Cup meetings since 2000; record may be incomplete.</small>