Zambia U17 thrash Tanzania 4-1 in AFCON qualifier

The Zambia U17 Men’s National Team secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Tanzania at El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, boosting their qualification hopes for the 2025 TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Captain Jonathan Kalimina opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a powerful strike, giving Zambia an early lead.

Striker Abel Salim Nyirongo doubled the advantage in the 47th minute, finishing clinically from a brilliant Nthasilwe Mapulande assist.

In the 80th minute, Mike Mutale found the net inside the 18-yard box from a Robert Banda cross, but the goal was initially ruled offside.

However, after a VAR review, the referee awarded the goal, making it 3-0 in favor of Zambia.

Tanzania pulled one back through striker Juma Sagwe in stoppage time, but their celebrations were short-lived as the Young Chipolopolo responded immediately, sealing the 4-1 win.

Ahead of the match, Coach Ian Bakala and his technical bench conducted intensive drills at the Niaiva Sportif Complex, focusing on offensive and defensive strategies to enhance team cohesion.

Zambia is drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Uganda, and Tanzania. Their next match is set for March 31, 2025, against Tanzania.

The 16-team tournament not only determines Africa’s U17 champion but also serves as a qualifier for the FIFA U17 Men’s World Cup, to be held later this year in Qatar.

Meanwhile, in the UEFA Women’s U18 Friendship Cup, Zambia’s Young Shepolopolo fell to Colombia 5-4 on penalties. They will face Turkey in their next Group A match on April 3.

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