‘Zambia can fulfil their Chan goal’
LIMBE — Zambia midfielder Collins “Malouda” Sikombe has revealed the secret that will help them progress in the African Nations Championships tournament (Chan) in Cameroon.
Chipolopolo got off to a flying start in the competition after they beat Tanzania 2-0 in their first match of the campaign at Stade Omnisport de Limbe on Tuesday.
Sikombe, who turns out for Napsa Stars in the Zambian league and was making his debut in the competition, scored one and created the other to help his team keep second position after Guinea beat Namibia 3-0 to move top of Group D.
The 23-year-old midfielder, who was voted the man of the match, has now discussed Zambia’s team work.
“I am very happy about today’s game because it is my first time playing in any Chan tournament,” Sikombe said. “I am very happy and thank God for what he has done for me in today’s game.
“This game has motivated me, and we really worked hard as a team. We know why we are here; we just need to keep talking to each other and work together.”
Sikombe urged his teammates to stay focused and plan well for their second match of the competition against Guinea which will be played on Saturday.
Against Taifa Stars, Zambia were forced to wait until the second half to grab the goals courtesy of Sikombe and Emmanuel Chabula.
Sikombe stepped up to find the back of the net from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute before Zambia doubled their advantage in the 82nd minute when he set up Chabula, whose first-time effort caught Tanzania keeper Aishi Manula off guard.
Meanwhile, Guinea became the first team to score more than two goals after they floored Namibia 3-0 with Horoya AC forward Yakhouba Barry scoring a brace, while the other goal for the Syli National was scored by Morlaye Sylla to give the West Africans complete control of Group D.
Zambia coach Milutin Sredojevic said: “No team wins the trophy after just winning the first game in the tournament. We have played against a good team that put us under a lot of pressure especially in the first half. Winning the opening match is a good step, but we are still far from playing our best.”