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Zambia Triumphs in Group G with a Strong Finish Against Sierra Leone
By Staff Writer
Date: November 19, 2024, 20:06
Zambia capped off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying journey on a triumphant note, clinching the top position in Group G after a decisive 2-0 victory over Sierra Leone at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex this Tuesday.
A Rocky Start for Zambia
In the opening minutes of the match, Sierra Leone appeared aggressive as they attempted to challenge Zambia’s defense. Players Augustus Kargbo and Issa Kallon posed threats with long-range shots, forcing Zambia to adopt a defensive posture early on. This initial pressure from the Leone Stars made it difficult for Zambia to establish their play during the first 10 minutes.
As time progressed past the initial twenty-minute mark, Zambia struggled to find their rhythm while Sierra Leone kept possession predominantly. Despite this difficulty, Kennedy Musonda showcased his energy for Zambia during counterattacks.
A Lackluster First Half
The first half was characterized by its tense yet uneventful nature; both teams failed to create significant goal-scoring opportunities. The Copper Bullets started generating some momentum with attempts from Joseph Sabobo and Stoppila Sunzu edging towards full-fledged attacks. Nevertheless, at halftime, both teams remained scoreless—a reflection of limited offensive prowess— as only three shots had been recorded between them in an overall cautious encounter.
The Catalyst of Victory
The second half sparked new hope for fans when Emmanuel Banda netted his goal in the 54th minute following a precise passing sequence that dissected right into Sierra Leone’s territory. Banda unleashed a powerful left-footed shot just outside of the penalty area that rattled into netting.
Having gained momentum from this breakthrough moment, chances for further goals began accumulating swiftly for Zambia again led by Musonda who continued wreaking havoc on defense around the hour mark.
Doubling Down on Success
Zambia increased their lead in style at minute 71 as Musonda found himself scoring after Sabobo hit woodwork moments before with another attempt from range. Musonda’s right-footed strike inside six yards secured his name on the scoreboard and solidified Zambian dominance throughout this period.
Sierra Leone aimed to regain control post-80 minutes; however each attacking endeavor launched was effectively dismantled by an organized Copper Bullets defense ensuring they maintained their clean sheet comfortably until match’s end.
Final Score:
Sierra Leone: (0)
Zambia: (2) – E.Banda (54′), K.Musonda (71′)
Lineups:
Sierra Leone:
Koroma, Jalloh, Silah (replaced by Koroma – ’61), Fornah (Conteh – ’66), Samadia, Micheal Dunia, Kaikai (Dumbuya – ’67), Kargbo; Kallon (replaced by Turay – ’76), Bakayoko (replaced by Kamara – ’76)
Zambia:
Nsabata; Kapumbu; Kambamba (Chama – ’69); Kangwa (Kampamba – ‘92), Sabobo (Bwalya – ‘91); Banda (Mafwenta – ‘69); F.Musonda; Chongo; Chisala; K.Musonda (Mwepu - ’80); Sunzu
The post Zambia Dominates Against Leone Stars for a Confident Victory! first appeared on Info Blog.
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Author : Jean-Pierre Challot
Publish date : 2024-11-19 23:22:26
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