BLANTYRE, Malawi — Zimbabwe secured their berth in the final of the Four Nations Tournament with a heart-stopping victory over Zambia in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw in regulation time at Bingu Stadium.
The Warriors staged a remarkable comeback after Zambia took an early 2-0 lead. Kebson Kamanga’s free-kick found the head of Chipolopolo captain Stoppilla Sunzu, to thrust Zambia in front in the second minute.
Despite Zimbabwe’s efforts to equalize, a swift passing sequence from Zambia led to Clatous Chama doubling the lead with a precise curling shot into the top corner.
Zimbabwe, however, rallied back just before halftime as Macauley Bonne capitalized on a chance, connecting with Daniel Musendami to narrow the deficit.
In the dying moments of the first half, former Sekhukhune United striker Walter Musona found the net, leveling the score at 2-2.
The second half saw Zimbabwe dominating possession and testing the Zambian defense with several long-range attempts, but neither side could break the deadlock, leading to a tense penalty shootout.
The decisive moment came when Daniel Musendami converted the winning penalty, sealing a 6-5 victory for Zimbabwe.
In the final, Zimbabwe will face the winner of the Malawi-Kenya match, while Zambia will compete for third place against the loser of that encounter.
Starting Lineups:
Zambia: Lawrence Mulenga, Bendict Chepteshi, Kebson Kamanga, Stoppila Sunzu, Dominic Chanda, Miguel Chaiwa, Gampani Lungu, Clatous Chama, Emmanuel Banda, Kennedy Musonda, Patson Daka
Zimbabwe: Bernard Donavan, Munashe Garananga, Jordan Zemura, Gerald Takwara, Teenage Hadede, Marshall Munetsi, Andy Rinomhota, Walter Musona, Daniel Musendami, Tinotenda Kadewere, Macauley Bonne
The post Zimbabwe clinch Four Nations final spot after dramatic victory over Zambia first appeared on Zimbabwe News Now.