Zambia’s Under-15 boys’ schools team battled to a 1-1 draw against reigning champions Tanzania in their opening Group B match at the CAF African Schools Football Championship in Harare, Zimbabwe.
The encounter played at Gateway High School, saw Tanzania take an early lead through Saddam Hussein, who found the back of the net in the 14th minute to put the defending champions ahead.
Zambia responded later in the game with Maxen Msimko scoring a crucial equaliser at the tail end of the second half to salvage a point for the COSAFA representatives.
Despite the comeback, head coach Evaristo Mkandawire expressed dissatisfaction with his team’s performance and insisted that the players failed to execute the game plan.
“We did not play according to instructions, and that is something we need to quickly address,” Nyirenda said. “The boys have the potential, but we must be more disciplined and focused in our approach.” Mkandawire said.
Mkandawire however remained hopeful ahead of Zambia’s next fixture against Benin, scheduled for Tuesday at 09:00 hours.
“We are now focusing on the next game against Benin. It is an important match for us, and we expect a much improved performance,” he said .
Zambia will wrap up their group stage matches with a final fixture later in the day at 13:00 hours against West African giants, Senegal.
In the earlier Group B encounter, Senegal edged past Benin to claim maximum points, placing them at the top of the standings after the opening round of matches.
