Zambia Chipolopolo Boys kicked their 2026 World Cup qualification journey with a 4-2 win over Congo Brazzaville at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Friday.
Patson Daka scored a brace to guide Zambia to a comfortable win.
Zambia started strong and went ahead just six minutes into the match, Patson Daka heading in a Rodrick Kabwe cross to put the hosts in the lead.
After taking the lead, Zambia put their foot off the gas for a bit and Congo Brazzaville took over.
Captain of the side, Silvere Ganvoula pulled the team level with a beautiful strike, Francis Mwansa in the Zambia goal with no chance.
The Red Devils took the lead a minute later Mons Bassouamina with a fine finish.
Zambia started coming back slowly and though they had levelled matters after Fashion Sakala scored but the linesman’s flag went up for offside.
The Copper Bullets finally drew level in the 43rd minute as Lameck Banda used his pace to enter the box before beating a defender and slotting home with ease.
The match went to the break with the scores level at 2-2.
In the second stanza, Zambia came back with a little more hunger and started to control the match.
Avram Grant also introduced Clatous Chota Chama just a few minutes into the second half to replace Benson Sakala.
The Chipolopolo started to come close but only took the lead in the 70th minute as Fashion Sakala scored from close range off a Lameck Banda cross.
Zambia continued to control play and create chances.
Patson Daka nearly increased the lead after a beautiful cross from substitute Edward Chilufya but the ball somehow went just behind.
Chilufya also came close to getting a goal as he beat the goalkeeper but failed to beat the crossbar.
Daka finally grabbed his brace in additional time as he slotted home from close range after Congo failed to deal with a Fashion Sakala low cross.
The win takes Zambia to the top of Group E. Niger and Tanzania will be in action tomorrow while Morocco is on bye.
Full-Time
Zambia 4-2 Congo Brazzaville
(Patson Daka 6′,90+2′ , Lameck Banda 43′, Fashion Sakala 70′ | Silvere Ganvoula 13′ , Mons Bassouamina 15′)
