COSAFA CUP WOMEN: Zambia dominates Angola in thrilling COSAFA Women's Championship clash
Posted : 09 October 2023
Florence Natya's strategic changes to the starting lineup proved their worth as Zambia triumphed 3-1 against Angola in the HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women's Championship at Dobsonville Stadium. The defending champions, determined to maintain their title defense, had been held to a goalless draw by Mozambique in their first match.
The opening moments saw Sarah Jere seizing an opportunity and netting the opening goal within the first three minutes, setting the stage for Zambia's dominance. Eneless Phiri played a pivotal role, delivering a brilliant assist for Jackline Nkole's stunning 20th-minute goal from outside the box.
Angola had a chance to pull one back when Elsa Caupe took a free-kick, but it agonizingly struck the woodwork. Zambia, eager to extend their lead, saw Natasha Nanyangwe colliding with Angolan goalkeeper Rita Jose, resulting in Nanyangwe being replaced by Maylan Mulenga.
Even in the second half, Zambia maintained their relentless pace, winning a set-piece early on. Agnes Phiri's attempt was thwarted by the crossbar. Player of the Match Evarine Katongo had her chance to increase the lead, but she narrowly missed the target. With fifteen minutes to go, Zambia earned another free-kick, but Susan Banda's effort was heroically saved by Rita Jose, who put her body on the line.
Despite Jose's efforts, Zambia continued to press, and Sarah Jere secured her brace five minutes before the final whistle, affirming their dominance. In injury time, Sarah Luvhunga scored a consolation goal for Angola.
In the group standings, Zambia and Mozambique are level on four points each, with Mozambique securing their position at the top by defeating Comoros Islands 3-1 in the day's second match. Comoros took an early lead through Anllaouia Ali, but Deolinda Gove equalized later in the half. Gove proved instrumental by converting a penalty early in the second half. However, her third goal was disallowed shortly after the penalty. Emilia Cazembe scored a spectacular long-range strike, sealing a 3-1 victory for Mozambique.
ADD A COMMENT :
Hot Topics
User name is required Email Id is required Comment is required
ADD A COMMENT :