Zambia made a flying start to their debut at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, coming from behind to secure a 3-1 victory over Indonesia in Group H.
The Junior Chipolopolo showed intent from the very first moments. Mapalo Simute tapped in Kelvin Chipelu’s cross just 24 seconds into the match, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.
Despite Zambia’s early dominance, Indonesia struck from their first clear opportunity. In the 12th minute, Muhamed Gholy found himself unmarked in the box and finished clinically to put the Southeast Asian side ahead.
Dennis Makinka’s team, however, did not falter. Dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Zambia finally found the breakthrough in the 35th minute when Able Nyirongo converted a Chipelu cross to equalize. Two minutes later, Nyirongo scored again with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area to give Zambia a 2-1 lead.
Simute with brace of assists
Just before halftime, in the 41st minute, Chipelu launched another attack, delivering a precise cross that found Lukonde Mwale, who calmly tapped home to make it 3-1 at the break.
The second half saw Zambia relax slightly, allowing Indonesia to threaten. They had several promising opportunities, including a penalty that was overturned by VAR and a shot that hit the post, but they could not reduce the deficit.
Zambia maintained control in the closing stages, pressing for further goals, but the score remained unchanged. The victory marked Zambia’s first-ever win at a FIFA U-17 World Cup.
With Brazil having defeated Honduras 7-0 in the other Group H match, Zambia sits second on three points, level with the Samba Boys. The Junior Chipolopolo will face Honduras next Monday, with a draw sufficient to secure progression to the knockout stages.
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