Zambia Beat Malawi In A Friendly

Collins Sikombe’s first-half strike was enough to hand Chipolopolo 1-0 victory over Malawi in an international friendly played at Heroes Stadium in Lusaka on Wednesday.

Malawi started on the front foot as they took the game to Zambia in the opening minutes of the game, but they failed to take their chances.

Micho barked instructions from the sidelines, probably telling his players to close down Malawi who were knocking on the door looking for an opening goal.

Chipolopolo then started knocking the ball around nicely, especially in the middle of the park with Kelvin Kampamba and Collin Sikombe combining well in the final third.

Sikombe eventually found the breakthrough for the hosts on the 14^th minute with a cracking strike past Flames goalkeeper Brighton Munthali.

The visitors were presented with an opening from a set-piece in the 22nd minute but Gabadinho Muhango curled his free-kick just wide of the upright.

Sebastien Mwange came to Chipolopolo’s rescue in the 35th minute, as the shot-stopper pulled off a fine save to keep out Richard Mbulu header, which was destined for the top corner.

Malawi came back stronger and organized at the start of the second half, but they took their foot off the pedal midway through the game.

Chipolopolo should have extended their lead in the 64th minute when Amity Shamende played Benson Sakala through on goal, however, the Power Dynamos midfielder managed to place his effort wide of the mark with only Munthali to beat.

Malawi were finding joy through the right channel operated by John Banda, who served up a few decent crosses into the box but Kondwani Chiboni made two crucial interceptions to deny Muhango the simple finish.

Sebastian Mwange came to Zambia’s rescue once again in the 80th minute, as he got down well to deny John Banda from the edge of the area.

The visitors nearly levelled matters in the 87th minute, as Chimango Kaira showed great control, before seeing his low effort palmed away by Mwange.

Chipolopolo managed to see off a late surge from Malawi, including a powerful effort from Micium Mhone who in particular proved wasteful in front of goal as the match concluded.