Chipolopolo’s win against Sierra Leone ensures they are back in Morocco 2025 race
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Loading... - Abel Okello
- 19 Sep 2024
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Zambia's national football team, the Chipolopolo, secured a crucial 3-2 win against Sierra Leone on Tuesday, reviving their chances of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The victory ended a seven-game winless streak and bolstered the team's position in the qualifying race.
The win came through standout performances, including a header by Kennedy Musonda, a clinical finish by Kelvin Kampamba, and a brilliantly executed free kick by Klings Kangwa. Despite being tested by Sierra Leone, Zambia showed resilience and determination.
The match, played at a half-filled Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, saw Zambia take the lead in the 28th minute through Musonda’s header after a cross from captain Lubambo Musonda. Sierra Leone quickly responded with an equalizer from Augustus Kargbo. In the second half, Kampamba, who came on as a substitute, scored a well-placed goal in the 66th minute. However, Sierra Leone leveled again with a goal from Hindolo Mustapha in the 72nd minute.
The decisive moment came in the 85th minute when Kangwa scored a stunning free kick, leaving Sierra Leone’s goalkeeper helpless. Zambia's defense held firm for the rest of the match, with substitute Benson Sakala coming on to help maintain their lead.
The victory has lifted the spirits of Zambian football fans and boosted the team's chances of qualifying for the AFCON. With three points from two games, Zambia will next face Chad in a critical back-to-back qualifier, with the first leg to be played at home.
This win not only provided relief for the team but also offered hope to Zambians amid tough economic challenges, including severe load-shedding.
