The Chipolopolo Boys opened their African Cup of Nations (AfCON) qualification journey with a defeat away to Ivory Coast.
On this occasion, it was substitute Jean-Philippe Krasso who pierced the final dagger into Zambian hearts by scoring two late goals, securing a 2-0 win in Bouaké.
BolaNews evaluates the performances of the Zambian men’s national team in their opening Group G match of the AfCON qualifiers on Friday.
Goalkeeper
Lawrence Mulenga (7/10)
Mulenga kept the Cote d’Ivoire strikers at bay, producing a match-high five saves.
Defenders
Gift Mphande (6/10)
Mphande arguably had the toughest job of the night, marking the dazzling Brighton and Hove Albion star, Simon Adingra.
Stopilla Sunzu (5/10)
Sunzu did not move a muscle as Jean-Philippe Krasso fired twice to sink the 2012 AfCON champions.
Kabaso Chongo (7/10)
He produced a number of timely, last ditch defensive interventions. He had more clearances (6) than any other player on the pitch.
Lubambo Musonda (7/10)
Being solid at the back and occasionally venturing forward to contribute to the attack.
Midfielders
Benson Sakala (6/10)
He made three tackles, two blocks, and performed two interceptions in the middle of the park against Ivory Coast.
Miguel Chaiwa (7/10)
As combative as ever, the youngster challenged for every ball in his vicinity, delivering a clutch defensive display.
Kings Kangwa (5/10)
The Israeli based diminitive midfiedler Kangwa did not create any chances against Ivory Coast in Bouaké.
Forwards
Lameck Banda (5/10)
The Lecce U.S attacker was heavily marked and lacked support on the right wing, with Mphande glued to Adingra.
Edward Chilufya (4/10)
Chilufya suffered an unfortunate injury and was withdrawn at 26 minutes.
Kennedy Musonda (5/10)
His link-up play with Kangwa and Lameck Banda early on looked promising. However, the striker did not attempt a single shot against Ivory Coast.
Substitutes
Clatous Chota Chama (5/10)
Not enough impact from the Tanzanian-based playmaker, who surprisingly started the match from the bench.
Kingston Mutandwa (4/10)
Mutandwa, who only featured for the last 15 minutes, will be eyeing a starting berth at home against Sierra Leone.
Joseph Sabobo Banda (N/A)
The youngster made his international debut for the senior Chipolopolo in Bouaké.
Coach
Avram Grant (6/10)
Aside from conceding a late double, Grant’s defensive tactical approach appeared effective in neutralising the opposition’s attack.
