PERFECT START

...as Chipolopolo start Qatar World Cup qualifiers with a 2-1 win over Mauritania

ZAMBIA’S national soccer team has started their quest to make a debut appearance at a World Cup tournament on a positive note after stunning Mauritania 2-1 in a Group B Qatar 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifier in Nouakchott, Mauritania.

First and second half goals from midfielder Enock “Computer” Mwepu and Prince Mumba handed the Chipolopolo maximum three points away from home in the match played at the Olympic Stadium.

Mwepu, who plays for Brighton and Hove Albion captained the Chipolopolo and led as a perfect example when he broke the deadlock just 10 minutes after kick off to give Zambia the lead after benefitting from Mumba’s assist.

Mauritania were the first to threaten and came close to scoring the opener two minutes before Mwepu’s goal but were unlucky as Adama Ba sent his free kick slightly over the bar.

Winger Edward Chilufya came close to doubling Zambia’s advantage in the 22nd minute but his free kick was saved by the Mauritanian goal keeper.

Chilufya also saw his effort going over the bar in the 27th minute as Zambia dictated play.

Mauritania were unlucky as they came close to leveling the scores in the 44th minute when N’diaye Bakary’s free kick went wide with the first stanza ending 1-0 in favour of the visitors.

Zambia looked vulnerable in the second half and almost conceded in the 49th minute when Adama Ba hit the side netting with a low shot on goal.

Zambia however punished Mauritania for their poor finishing upfront when Mumba benefitted from a counter attack to slot in Zambia’s second goal.

Lubambo Musonda set up the Kabwe Warriors youngster after exchanging passes with Leicester City striker Patson Daka for the Chipolopolo to enjoy a 2-0 lead.

Despite leading 2-0 the Chipolopolo looked shaky in all departments forcing coach Beston Chambeshi to withdraw Edward Chilufya for Spencer Sautu.

Amadou Niass punished Zambia’s clumsy defence and beat goal keeper Mwenya Chibwe with a low shot to get the consolation goal for Mauritania in the 68th minute.

Chambeshi introduced Benson Sakala for Mumba while Dickson Chapa replaced injured Boyd Musonda.

However, Mauritania continued to dominate the second half and created numerous scoring chances.

But the Chipolopolo had a safe pair of hands in Chibwe who produced some fantastic saves as Zambia held on to their 2-1 lead to pick a very important win which propelled them to three points in Group B.

Zambia’s next game will be a home fixture against Tunisia slated for Tuesday at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.