Zambia started their 2017 U20 world cup campaign with a victory over two time champions Portugal on Sunday with goals courtesy of Spartak Moscow striker Fashion Sakala and Edward Chilufya.
Portugal started on a strong note and kept the 2016 COSAFA U20 Champions on a back foot. The young Chipolopolo started gaining moment and came close with a Conlyde Luchanga effort outside the 18 yard area after Patson Daka teed the ball for him nicely.
Zambia then lost their Star Striker Patson Daka through an injury and Emmanuel Banda was introduced. The first half ended goalless.
The African champions started the second half with a more confidence and only needed six minutes to score. Edward Chilufya got on the end of a rebound after the goal keeper had saved a Enock Mwepu shot direct into Chilufya’s path.
Both teams came close with Emmanuel Banda almost scoring from long range. Zambia however doubled their lead in the 75th minute with Fashion Sakala who beat two defenders before unleashing a beautiful right foot shot .
Portugal pulled one back in the 90th minute through substitute Helder. Zambia held on to win the match 2-1 and face Iran on their next match on Wednesday 24th May at 10:00hrs Central African time.
