Forest Rangers scored two goals in both halves to frustrate giant killers FC MUZA in the Absa cup final match played at the packed to the rafters, Lusaka’s Woodlands stadium.
It did not take long for the Ndola-based side, Rangers to settle in the game, as they made their intentions known early.
However, it was not the same for Lameck Banda’s men who could not replicate their fine form shown in the super league in today’s match, as Fole Malembe, eventually got their reward through an own goal from Chanda Chileshe after a cross from Diego Apanane.
As the match progressed, FC MUZA showed brilliance on the counter, but Ian Bakala’s men were solid at the back and quick to cut out passing lanes.
Hat-trick for Malambo
Shadreck Malambo came on to replace the injured Samuel Sikaonga in the 27th minute to become the first player to ever clinch the famous trophy on three occasions with three different clubs. In 2013, he was part of the triumphant Red Arrows squad, and 5 years later, he was in the final with Nkana.
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MUZA gave their all to probe the Rangers’ defense but couldn’t quite find the goal. Ian Bakala’s men went into the second half with a slender 1-0 advantage.
After a quiet afternoon, their hitman, Andrew Phiri had his effort saved early in the second half, while his claims for a penalty went begging.
Historic VAR
The historic moment of the match came in the 50th minute when VAR was used to disallow a second goal for Forest Rangers due to an infringement on an FC MUZA defender.
Twelve minutes later, Quadri Kola’s close-range finish in the 62nd minute, was enough to seal a famous victory for the Dola hill side.
From that point on, it was obvious that Ndola would win the ABSA Cup, and as the final whistle blew, the players in black and red had a miserable day.
Forest Rangers have since become the ninth team to win the ABSA cup since its inception in 2007.
