adminNkosilathi Sibanda in BULAWAYO
Zimbabwe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
Zambia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 3
ZAMBIA humiliated the Young Warriors in their backyard as they took the African Union Sports Council Region 5 Youth Games football gold at Barbourfields yesterday. Patrick Ngoma, the tournament’s top goalscorer, opened the scoring with a header in the 52nd minute. Six minutes later, Zamibia’s quick passing unlocked Zimbabwe once more, with Ngoma at the heart of their move and Kanashi Lupiya finishing in style.
The Young Chipolopolo piled on the misery in the last quarter when they scored the third goal through a penalty converted by Solomon Sakala.
Zimbabwe’s Leslie Lunga appeared to bring down Lupiya inside the box and Seychelles referee Keren Yocette did not hesitate to send him to an early shower.
Zimbabwe’s coach Tafadzwa Mashiri was clueless, in the midst of the battering, with the Zambians taking full control of the midfield.
Zimbabwe’s first corner kick came on the hour mark.
“It was disappointing. The Zambians sapped our energy. We failed to work out the midfield and the defence was weak,” said Mashiri
Hector Chilombo, the winning coach, said they deserved victory.
“I have been with these players for three years. They know what I want and what is expected of them. This was our game.”
Teams:
Zimbabwe: K. Shangiwa, T. Muringani (D. Khumalo, 46th min), M. Chodeva, L. Muyambo, T. Kadyaridzire, I. Munsaka (M. Kalombe, 70th min), L. Lunga, B. Sibanda, L. Bvochora (T. Mthunzi ,55th min) , B. Ncube, T. Zidoro.
Zambia: M. Banda, J. Daka, B. Mkandawire, S. Phiri, S. Sakala, P. Ngoma, P. Daka (H. Musonda, 37th min), C. Shezongo (John Musonda, 86th min), G. Mhandu, C. Sakulanda(K. Mukuka, 86th min), K. Lupiya.
Online Reporter