Zambia are through to the quarterfinals of 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a hard fought 1-0 triumph over Uganda Cranes in a group “D” match staged at Rubavu on Saturday evening.

Green Buffaloes forward Christopher Katongo justified his inclusion in the George Lwandamina’s side with a fine header in the later minutes of the first half to seal the three priceless points.

Uganda who still have a mathematical chance of qualifying, were the brighter side in the early exchanges of the action packed encounter, but they posed no meaningful threat to Zambia keeper Jacob Banda.

Erisa Ssekisumba blasted wide Cranes’ first clear chance, from inside the penalty box in the 9th minute before Clatous Chama responded two minutes later on the other end for the Chipolopolos in an almost similar fashion.

Uganda keeper Mathias Kigonya was called to action in the 13th minute, and he proved alert, when he picked with ease Christopher Munthali’s header from Chama’s freekick.

Inspirational skipper Christopher Katongo watched in dismay as his goal bound attempt was cleared off the line by Dannis Okot after a clever chip over advancing Mathias Kigonya in the 16th minute.

Katongo atoned for the miss in the 40th minute with a fine header off another of Chama’s free kick from the left to put the Chicken Lwandamina’s side in the lead – He (Katongo) crowned the moment with his trademark salute celebration.

Coach Milutin Ssredojovic responded by pulling out Robert Ssentongo for Frank Kalanda – he again made another substation early second half by withdrawing Ivan Ntegge for Martin Kizza.

Chipolopolo however managed to keep any threat coming their way at bay, ensuring they don’t let go of the vital lead.

Chama who had a brilliant game should be inked his name on the scorer’s sheet in the 80th minute but indecision allowed defender Richard Kassaga to block his shot after rounding up keeper Kigonya.

Substitute Geofrey Serenkuma blasted wide from close range Cranes last meaningful chance for an equalizer in the 89th minute.

Uganda will next meet Zimbabwe while Zambia will take on Mali in Kigali on Wednesday, January 27 in the last group “D” matches.

@bonfaceosano

Bonface Osano

African Football Writer contributing @Soka25east | Commentator; appeared on @MySoccerAfrica, @KweseSports, @ntvkenya, others | Keen follower of African Football. E-mail: bonfaceosano@gmail.com