ZESCO United Football Club Team Ya Ziko
Congolese giants, TP Mazembe yesterday narrowly beat ZESCO United in a blockbuster international friendly match staged at the Levy Mwanawasa stadium, Ndola.
A 55’ minute long range goal from Glody Likonza was all Mazembe needed to walk away with a hard-fought victory against a ZESCO United side that was oozing with confidence on the day.
With CAF assignments in plain sight, both ZESCO United and TP Mazembe sought to use the friendly to gauge their preparedness for next month’s Confederation Cup and Champions League respectively.
Gregory Sanjase started in goal for ZESCO United ahead of Cyril Chibwe with Kenyan and club first choice goalkeeper Ian Otieno rested.
Simon Silwimba, Fackson Kapumbu, Clement Mwape, Solomon Sakala were charged with the responsibility of holding the backline together.
Donashano Malama, Mukuka Chanda, Austin Muwowo, Collins Sikombe and John Chingandu dictated play in the middle of the park.
Kenyan international and ZESCO United striker, Vincent Oburu made his first return to the pitch after being on the sidelines for a while.
The match which was played at a pulsating pace was more of a simulation of what the two sides are likely to encounter in their CAF assignment.
Mazembe being the Goliath between the two sides displayed physicality, control and experience, ingredients that have made them flourish in the African game.
Like David, ZESCO United on the other hand brought speed, bravery, intelligence and aplomb against a side that has won the African Champions League five times.
Likonza’s second half goal sealed the victory for the visitors who got too overwhelmed by ZESCO United’s wave of attacks.
Alfred Leku could have levelled matters in the 85’minute only for his header to come off the upright.
ZESCO United begin their journey in the CAF Confederations Cup with a mouthwatering away fixture to Royal AM of South Africa scheduled for October 9.
Author: Desmond Katongo
