ZAMBIA’s dream of qualifying to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for two consecutive times since its long stay away from the competition has gained some momentum after a 3-2 home victory against Sierra Leon last night.
Chances of winning were already slim and coming from a defeat at the hands of the elephants, Zambia just had to step up in order to put a smile on the home fans and avoid being last in group D with zero points.
With only 27 minutes played, Zambia’s Kennedy Musonda shot a live bullet assisted by Lubambo Musonda putting Zambia on the lead.
But before the Kopala fans could even finish singing “ba Leon mwasebana!” Zambia’s opponents had already taken advantage of the weak defence of Avram Grant’s team and scored a quick equaliser six minutes later by Augustus KaKargbo.
The game reached its climax and went on half time with a draw but some drama erupted causing tension in the stadium led by Copperbelt based artiste , Y-Celeb who started running around with a flag causing a commotion with fans.
This forced police to double their security and try to stop Y- Celeb from continuing he gave the fans a short drama performance without bars, as the police escorted him out of the stadium via his belt after he resisted the
In the second half a spark of hope was ignited when Chipolopolo coach, Grant introduced Kelvin Kampamba into the game who scored a sexy goal in the 71st minute, putting Zambia in the lead again.
In less than 61 seconds, sweet celebrations from the home fans quickly turned into sour as the visiting team leveled up once more through substitute, Hindolo Mustapha, earning the Chipolopolo Nkana FC insults from the crowd.
However, five minutes before the game ended, 25-year-old Kings Kangwa gave supporters a reason to smile again as he scored a beautiful free kick and just like that, a Gen Z saved the night.
Zambia’s win, despite struggling over a team considered weak in Africa has put the country second on the table with three points, seating behind Ivory Coast boasting with six points.
The boys have since remained with four more games to play to determine their future at the 2025 AFCON.
A return home leg with the Elephants of Ivory coast, an away game with Sierra Leon, and two games with Chad both away and home.
While some were impressed with the copper bullet’s performance, many online fans have criticised the performance citing negligence from the defenders and weaknesses from the goal keeper while young player, Joseph Sabobo Banda for his performance received praise for his performance.
Grant’s new plots and tactics will now be tested on Chad next month.
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Pictures by FAZ Media
Kalemba September 11, 2024
