At Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Saturday, Zesco United defeated Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy 4–3 in an exciting first-leg of the CAF Confederation Cup second round.

Thabang Sesinyi completed a quick attacking play to give the visitors the lead in the fifteenth minute.

Zesco equalized through Amine Hiver after being set up by Kelvin Kampamba before the interval.

However, Sesinyi scored his second goal of the game in the 30th minute, giving Jwaneng Galaxy the lead again following a goalkeeping blunder by Philip Sakauta.

Hiver completed his brace after converting from the spot to make it 2-2 at halftime, following a handball in the box.

In the second half, Siwale introduced Pascal Phiri and Freddy Michael for Abraham Siakombo and Peter Musukuma.

Siwale confident ahead of return leg.

The changes made an immediate impact as Phiri delivered a precise cross that found Kabaso Chongo, who put Zesco ahead 3–2 in the 70th minute.

Phiri continued to trouble the opposition, providing another assist for Zachariah Chilongoshi to extend the lead to 4–2.

Jwaneng Galaxy pulled one back in the 85th minute through Chicco Molefe, setting up a tense finish. Despite late pressure, Zesco United held on to secure a 4–3 win at home.

Speaking after the match, Siwale expressed confidence in his team ahead of the return leg.

“They managed to score three goals; we can also score on their side, and this is what football can do. I am confident going into the return leg, but we could have done better, especially in terms of conceding,” said Siwale.

Next Saturday, Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francis Town will host the return leg.

The nine times Zambian champions, will aim to protect their 4–3 lead and advance to the group stage of the 2025-26 CAF Confederation Cup.

READ ALSO: “It’s painful,” – Chiyangi after Rangers snatched a point at Green Buffaloes.