Zimbabwe triumphs over Zambia, proceeding to the Four-Nations Tournament final

TAKUDZWA HILLARY CHIWANZA

BLANTYRE – Zimbabwe, under the temporary leadership of coach Norman Mapeza, proceeded to the final of the Four-Nations Tournament in Malawi after overcoming Zambia 6-5 in a thrilling penalty shootout, following a 2-2 deadlock in normal play.

Zimbabwe win over Zambia at Four Nations Tournament in Malawi

Image: ZIFA

The match commenced with blistering intent from Zambia who opened the lead in the 2nd minute with a goal from Stopilla Sunzu.

Zambia continued to command the pace of the game in the early minutes following their goal, with Zimbabwe scrambling to find its footing.

Zambia took advantage of Zimbabwe's sluggard start to the game as they doubled their lead in the 23rd minute through a Clatous Chama goal. The Warriors continued in a disjointed form, with scant signs of any cohesion.

However, the Warriors soon staged a remarkable comeback as Macauley Bonne pulled one back, tapping in from a from a close range in the 29th minutes. From there onwards, Zimbabwe showed signs of serious intent. Shortly before the halftime whistle, Walter Musona equalised for Zimbabwe.

The second half started with both sides vying for a lead. Bonne managed to get some space in the box in the 52nd minute but his shot went wide. Marshall Munetsi attempted to shoot from range in the 58th minute, but also dragged wide his effort.

The Warriors finally found their rhythm, seeing more of the ball and kept a solid defensive guard against the Zambians.

Both teams continued to search for a goal, but none came forth. Kadewere showed some menacing signs towards the goal with a snap shot but the Zambian keeper parried it away for a corner kick, which was defended.

Despite numerous attempts from both sides, the deadlock remained unbroken at the end of regular time, pushing the game into a penalty shootout.

Zambia's Daka was the first to score, but Zimbabwe's goalkeeper, Donovan Bernard, thwarted the subsequent attempts from Banda and Lunga.

With the shootout poised at 5-5, Zambia missed their shot, and Msendami's successful penalty secured a hard-fought 6-5 victory for Zimbabwe.