Zambia’s Copper Queens claimed their first victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a thrilling 3-2 win over Senegal, sending them to the top of Group A with four points. The result comes after their 2-2 draw with hosts Morocco in their opening match last Saturday.
Senegal, who thrashed the Democratic Republic of Congo 4-0 in their opener, started strongly and took an early lead just five minutes into the game. Ngeunar Ndiaye outran Lushomo Mweemba and Mapalo Maluba before slotting the ball into an empty net past goalkeeper Ngambo Musole, who had come off her line.
Zambia responded swiftly. In the 12th minute, Grace Chanda delivered a precise cross into the box that found Racheal Kundananji, who neatly set up Barbra Banda to score the equaliser — her 60th international goal in just 67 appearances.
The Copper Queens dominated possession and came close to taking the lead, only to see Prisca Chilufya’s close-range header ruled out for offside. Zambia continued to press, with Banda and Kundananji combining well again, but Kundananji failed to tap in Banda’s cross from close range.
Just before the break, Banda found the net once more from a Kundananji assist, but the goal was again disallowed for offside, ending a dramatic first half at 1-1.
Zambia picked up where they left off in the second half, maintaining pressure on Senegal. Their efforts were rewarded in the 51st minute when Kundananji, who was named player of the match, broke through the Senegalese defence to slot home Zambia’s second goal calmly before Banda extended the lead in the 74th minute to make it 3-1
Senegal responded by making changes in the 60th minute, introducing Fatoumata Drama and Hapsatou Diallo to add energy. Zambia also made a change, with Fridah Mukoma replacing Grace Chanda in the 68th minute.
In the 80th minute, Senegal clawed their way back into the match. A defensive lapse saw Musole come off her line again, this time committing a foul that earned Senegal a penalty and a yellow card for the goalkeeper. Ndiaye converted the spot-kick, scoring her fourth goal of the tournament and bringing Senegal within one.
As Senegal pressed for an equaliser, Zambia retreated into a deep defensive shape to protect their lead. Coach Nora Hauptle made a late substitution, bringing on Margret Belemu for Martha Tembo during the ten minutes of added time.
Despite the pressure, the Copper Queens held firm to secure a vital three points ahead of their final group stage match on Saturday against DR Congo, who face Morocco later tonight.
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