By 
Zambia Under-17 Women’s head coach Carol Kanyemba says her side was mentally prepared for an early setback against Rwanda, insisting the opening goal did little to shake the Copper Princesses’ confidence.
Kanyemba admitted her team struggled to find rhythm in the first half but applauded their resilience, as Zambia rallied to secure a 2-1 victory on the day and a 4-1 aggregate triumph.
“Conceding first is part of the game and does not determine the outcome. At halftime, we emphasised the importance of how the team responds,” said the two-time World Cup qualifying coach.
Speaking after the match at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, Kanyemba credited her players’ mental toughness for the comeback, while acknowledging that improvements are still needed.
Read more: Zambia under 17 female football team hailed despite World Cup opener loss to Brazil
“Our first-half performance and missed chances show there is still a lot of work ahead,” she noted.
Meanwhile, Rwanda coach Oscarie Iragena attributed her team’s defeat largely to lack of experience but remained optimistic about their progress.
“Our players struggled to cope with Zambia’s pace, but this is our first time competing at this level. We will take valuable lessons from these matches,” she said.
Rwanda made a bright start, taking an early lead through Sylvie Umwanankundi, who curled a superb effort into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Bukat with no chance.
The visitors maintained early pressure, forcing corners and unsettling Zambia, but failed to extend their advantage.
Zambia gradually grew into the match, with Grace Phiri and Elizabeth Mofya pushing forward, although their efforts were twice ruled out for offside.
The contest remained evenly balanced, with both sides creating chances. Zambia came close from a corner before Phiri’s impressive run set up Natasha Kasema, whose close-range effort was denied by a fine save.
After the break, Zambia made tactical changes, introducing Lillian Mwenda for fresh attacking impetus.
The hosts returned with renewed intensity, creating several opportunities but struggling to convert them.
Their persistence paid off in the 74th minute when Faith Kapulungu equalised with a powerful long-range strike.
Zambia continued to press and were awarded a penalty after Phiri was brought down in the box.
Kasema stepped up in the 82nd minute and calmly converted to complete the comeback.
The Copper Princesses now advance to the next round, where they will face the Democratic Republic of Congo.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments