Forest Rangers came from behind to snatch a 2-1 win over Power Dynamos in the first semifinal of the 2023 ABSA Cup on Saturday at the Arthur Davies stadium in Kitwe.
Frederick Mulambia put Dynamos in the lead in the 6th minute but Cephas Mulombwa inspired the Ndola side to victory with his involvement in the two goals.
In the second half, Mulombwa set up striker Moyela Libamba for the equalizer in the 69th minute before the attacker rose high to head in the winner for Fole Malembe in injury time.
However, speaking in a post-match interview, Kashobondo stated that the Forest technical bench concentrated on the striking department prior to the match
Kashobondo added that the bench was concerned with the scoring rate hence they had to work on it.
“We had planned for the session to improve the attacking area, it has really worked for us,” Kashobondo said.
He further disclosed that the team will be aiming to clinch the Absa Cup title in their first appearance.
“It’s so amazing, we planned earlier on how to qualify to the ABSA Cup. Our prayer is to see the team win it for the first time.”
Kashobondo said his team will be ready to face either FC MUZA or Trident in the final, adding they are both good opposition.
“Both teams are good, for them to reach this far, it means they are good teams. Whichever team that wins, we are ready to face them,” he stated.
Forest Rangers eyeing the double
The Fole Malembe assistant coach is optimistic about a season double for the fourth-placed Super League side. He is of the view that the semifinal triumph will serve as a morale booster for the team to push hard for the league title and ABSA cup.
“This is excellent motivation which will push us forward and looking to finish in the top four or if anything, maybe getting the league. We still have six games to go and it’s possible,” Kashobondo said.
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Forest Rangers will face the winner between FC MUZA and Trident Football Club, who will battle for a place in the final of the ABSA Cup at Arthur Davies Stadium this afternoon.
Fole Malembe last won a championship title in 2005 and will be hoping to cap off an impressive season with a maiden ABSA Cup title.
