Forest Rangers Football Club's journey during the 2022/23 season was nothing short of remarkable, culminating in a historic achievement that left their fans and supporters ecstatic. The club's pursuit of greatness reached its pinnacle as they clinched their very first Absa Cup title. This triumph was a testament to their dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to excellence. The highlight of the season was undoubtedly the captivating Absa Cup final, where Forest Rangers faced off against their opponents, MUZA, at the iconic Woodlands Stadium. The stakes were high, emotions ran deep, and the atmosphere was electric. In a dramatic display of skill, strategy, and teamwork, Forest Rangers emerged victorious, etching their name into the annals of history as the proud winners of the prestigious Absa Cup. This victory was not just about the trophy; it symbolized their rise to prominence and marked a defining moment for the club. However, Forest Rangers' accomplishments went beyond the final scoreline. Their triumph was also significant due to the pivotal role that technology played in the match. The final against MUZA became more than just a battle on the pitch; it became a pioneering moment in Zambian football. The introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system marked a groundbreaking step forward in officiating, adding a new layer of fairness and accuracy to the game. Forest Rangers not only secured the championship but also played a part in the evolution of the sport itself. As the jubilation from their Absa Cup victory reverberated, Forest Rangers were far from resting on their laurels. The horizon held another momentous event—the Carling Black Label Samuel ‘Zoom’ Ndhlovu Charity Shield, a clash of titans that pitted the champions against the MTN Super Division victors, Power Dynamos. What made this particular encounter even more intriguing was the innovative twist introduced: fans were bestowed with the power to determine the starting lineup. In a true demonstration of fan engagement and inclusivity, the club allowed supporters to shape the composition of the team that would take the field for this high-stakes encounter. Overwhelming participation in the voting process, with more than 147,000 fans casting their votes, showcased the deep bond between the team and its followers. This democratization of the lineup selection not only heightened excitement but also highlighted the evolving relationship between fans and the sport they love. Forest Rangers' Head Coach, Ian Bakala, expressed a mix of excitement and realism about this groundbreaking initiative. He acknowledged the thrill of this fan-driven lineup selection, yet candidly wished for more time to prepare the team accordingly. Despite the time constraints, his words reflected the team's determination and readiness to face the challenge posed by Power Dynamos. The anticipation reached its peak as the voting concluded on August 11, leading to the eagerly awaited revelation of the chosen starting lineups. The moment of truth was set to be unveiled by the event sponsors, Carling Black Label Zambia, adding an element of suspense and curiosity to the mix. Coach Bakala's sentiments resonated deeply with the players as well. The responsibility of donning the starting jersey came with a heightened sense of purpose. Each player understood that they carried not only their own aspirations but also the hopes and expectations of the fans who had placed their faith in them. The significance of this unique opportunity was not lost on the team, and they were determined to give nothing less than their best on the field. Beyond the Charity Shield match, Forest Rangers were gearing up for the forthcoming league campaign. This match served as a critical dress rehearsal, a platform to gauge their readiness and assess their strengths and areas of improvement. As they prepared to face Kabwe Warriors in the league opener, the Charity Shield clash offered valuable insights into the team's cohesion, strategy, and overall performance. Against the backdrop of this unfolding narrative, Forest Rangers made headlines once again by announcing new additions to their squad. With the MTN Super League kickoff on the horizon, the club was eager to witness how these fresh faces would integrate into the existing team dynamics. The countdown to August 19 and the league's commencement added an extra layer of anticipation, marking the start of a new chapter in the club's journey. In conclusion, Forest Rangers Football Club's story during the 2022/23 season was a captivating tale of triumph, innovation, and anticipation. Their historic Absa Cup victory, intertwined with the pioneering introduction of VAR technology, elevated them to new heights. The Charity Shield match represented an unprecedented shift in fan engagement, allowing supporters to shape the team's destiny. As they embraced these milestones, the club stood poised to embark on a new league season, bolstered by fresh talent and guided by the lessons learned from their remarkable journey.