Zambia began their 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a 3-1 win over Tanzania in their Group A opener on Monday. Captain Jonathan Kalimina scored early with a long-range strike, and Abel Salim Nyirongo added a second with a close-range volley. Despite some defensive lapses, Tanzania missed their chances to score.
Zambia extended their lead through Mike Mutale’s goal, which was initially ruled offside but confirmed after a VAR review. Late in the match, Tanzania’s Juma Sangwe scored, but Gabriel Phiri quickly responded to seal the victory for Zambia.
Speaking after the match, Zambia’s coach Ian Bakala expressed satisfaction with the result but emphasized the need for further improvement from his team.
“We won the game, but I think we didn’t do much,” Bakala said in a post-match press conference. “Looking at how we started, we have goals, but again, we just have to work extra hard because the games will get harder.”
Despite urging his players to step up their efforts, Bakala also acknowledged their performance in securing the win. “We managed to score goals, which is important in the tournament. And I think for the first game, it’s always difficult, but I give credit to the players for how they managed the game, scored, and played, which is more important. I think the first games are very important. Looking at the opponents we’re facing, I think it has given us a good picture.”
The victory marked Zambia’s first-ever win in an opening match at the U-17 AFCON. Up next, they will take on group leaders Morocco, who dominated Uganda with a 5-0 victory. Bakala remains confident but highlighted key areas for improvement.
“I think a lot of players in the first game looked a bit tired, but I think they’ll recover. They’re going to work on it, but we are going to plan to beat Morocco.”
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