Zambia have finished their maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup tournament with a nervy 3-1 win over Costa Rica, securing their first-ever goal and triumph at the finals in the process.

It marked the final outing for both of these nations at Australia & New Zealand 2023, with Japan and Spain advancing from Group C.

Just three minutes was all Zambia needed to make history by scoring their first-ever goal in this competition. Lushomo Mweemba was the player who provided the finishing touch, looping Avell Chitundu’s corner over the diving Daniela Solera.

After dominating proceedings following their opener, the Zambians doubled their lead from the spot on the 30-minute mark. Captain Barbra Banda stepped up to fire home her first World Cup goal, which was also the competition’s 1,000th overall.

Costa Rica found their way back into the game immediately after the interval, with Melissa Herrera reacting quickly to poke home from close range after Valeria Del Campo initially headed the ball across the goal-line.

The momentum shifted in the favour of Costa Rica, but Zambia held on and would secure their victory at the death, when Rachael Kundananji slotted the ball under Solera and into the back of the net for her side’s third of the evening.

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

Football Journalist | TotalEnergies AFCON 2021 Photographer | Media Officer - Kabwe Warriors FC | Graphic Designer | Videographer