Zambia attacking midfielder Golden Mashata is bullish they have what it takes to retain the ongoing Hollywoodbets Cosafa Cup after defeating South Africa 2-1 to reach the final on Friday.

In the semi-final fixture at King Zwelithini Stadium, the Chipolopolo Boys came from behind to beat the hosts Bafana Bafana, who had taken the lead in the first half through Tshegofatso in the 44th minute. However, in the second half, Zambia came back guns blazing and drew level in the 59th minute courtesy of Mashata.

The defending champions kept building pressure on the South African defense, and it soon paid off when they won a free kick just outside the 18-yard box. Red Arrows striker Albert Kangwanda stepped up and made no mistake to beat Thabiso Mzimela in the far right corner and put the Chipolopolo in the lead in the 69th minute.

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Speaking after the pulsating clash, Mashata, who netted twice with as many assists in four matches at the tournament so far, said the defending champions are aiming to add the seventh crown to their cabinet. He said: “It is a good motivation for me being a debut tournament, scoring two goals and two assists so far. I am hugely motivated.”

The Green Buffaloes forward added: “We are going for the title. As we spoke early that we are coming here to defend the title. We know what is at stake and our task is to be the champion. We are going to win,” adding: “It is a big achievement for me and the team, we really pushed hard for this, hopefully, we are defending the title. I dedicate this victory to my mum because she called me and told me I was going to score son and you are going to win.”

Zambia will face Lesotho in the final of the 2023 Cosafa Cup at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday.