Morocco defeated the Copper Bullets 2-0 at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, ending Zambia’s hopes of earning their first-ever FIFA World Cup qualification.
BolaNews evaluates the performances of the Chipolopolo Boys in their defeat against the Atlas Lions of Morocco.
GOALKEEPER
Toaster Nsabata (4/10): He threaded a costly pass to Chaiwa in the first half before making an unconvincing dive in the second proceeding.
DEFENDERS
Gift Mphande (6/10): He provided good support for his winger up front with overlapping runs and one-two passes. The right back made some solid tackles in defense.
Benson Sakala (7/10): He had a decent performance in an unorthodox center-back position. No opposition defender managed to dribble past Sakala nor his partner
Kabaso Chongo (6/10): The defender did an excellent job in limiting Morocco’s chances on goal.
Obino Chisala (7/10): It surprised many to see him get chucked off after an hour given how dangerous his crosses were.
MIDFIELDERS
Miguel Chaiwa (6/10): He did some tidy work in the middle of the park with his passes and dribbles.
Emmanuel Banda (5/10): The midfielder was quite hesitant and slow with his passes, giving the hosts enough time to intercept and read his moves.
Kings Kangwa (9/10): The midfielder should have left the pitch with a couple of assists. Kangwa created the most chances (4), made the most final third passes (20), won the most fouls (5), and attempted the most crosses (6) in the match.
FORWARD
Lameck Banda (6/10): Often heavily marked, he kept the opposition defenders busy with his dribbles and turns but struggled to find the opening he was looking for.
Fashion Sakala (5/10): Sakala’s long-awaited return to the Zambian men’s national team did not go as expected.
Patson Daka (7/10): He had more touches in the opposition box than any other player in the contest (7).
SUBSTITUTES
Edward Chilufya (6/10): The forward was industrious after coming on, winning some fouls on the right wing.
Lubambo Musonda (6/10): The Chipolopolo Boys skipper was back on the pitch against the Atlas Lions, replacing Obino Chisala at left back.
Kennedy Musonda (6/10): The striker hit the crossbar from point-blank range in the 72nd minute.
Joseph Sabobo Banda (6/10): The youngster left Moroccan defenders for dead after coming on, nearly registering an assist.
COACH:
Avram Grant (6/10): The veteran tactician made timely substitutions, and got his team playing confidently but couldn’t get the result.
READ ALSO: Walid Regragui Prays For Zambia After Morocco’s 2-0 Victory In Ndola.
