ZESCO United Football Club Team Ya Ziko
ZESCO United yesterday beat Kansanshi Dynamos 5-3 on penalties to reach the 2020/2021 Absa cup semi-finals.
The Ndola based league giants clinched their semi-final place after a thrilling penalty shootout that saw former Zanaco goalkeeper, Toaster Nsabata save Mathews Malekas spot kick.
Thabani Kamusoko, Tafadzwa Rusike, Adrian Chama, Toaster Nsabata, and Fackson Kampumbu all successfully converted their penalties.
Kansanshi Dynamos, Scotch Mwanza, Wilford Sikanyika, and Girese Muyumba successfully converted their spot kicks while Maleka’s was saved by Nsabata.
The much anticipated game between ZESCO United and Kansanshi Dynamos proved a cagey affair with both sides failing to produce goals in the first team.
It looked like the game was going to head straight to spot kicks until Tafadzwa Rusike put ZESCO United ahead with only 4’minutes remaining.
Dynamos was given a lifeline after ZESCO United defender, Simon Silwimba was judged to have handled the ball in the penalty box.
Mwanza stepped up to level matters for Dynamos beating fellow goalkeeper Nsabata to take the game to penalties.
In his post-match comments, ZESCO United coach Numba Mumamba expressed delight with the result.
“It was our day that is why we have come out as winners. It wasn’t an easy game because we clearly struggled in the first half. Kansanshi did dominate the first half but after talking to the boys, the second half looked better for us that’s why we scored a goal,” Mumamba said
Mumamba is hoping for a much improved performance from his side when they face Konkola Blades in the semifinals.
“We are delighted with this victory however we will need to improve from today’s performance especially that we will be facing a good side in Konkola Blades. These teams are determined and ready to give their best.”
Author: Desmond Katongo
