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Match - Sat 8 September, 15:00,
| Goals | Goals |
|---|---|
| . (21’) |
Uganda put Zambia under pressure
Christopher Katongo of Zambia
The African champions played all the football but could not convert the numerous chances they had.
Furthermore, Uganda goalkeeper Denis Onyango was in inspired mood shutting out some sure chances.
With less than 10 minutes played, Onyango kept out two attempts from Rainford Kalaba shot and free kick in the 5th and 7th minutes respectively.
Zambia took the lead in the 21st minute through captain Christopher Katongo in the 21st minute, his second goal at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in as many games there.
Katongo scored with a simple tap-in from a Davies Nkausu throw-in in a first half Zambia outplayed Uganda.
Uganda came back stronger after the break with Emmanuel Okwi coming close in the 57th minute but Stophira Sunzu was alert to clear the danger.
Zambia were second best especially after Herve Renard made a shock substitution after taking off midfielder Isaac Chansa who had an outstanding game until his removal in the 62nd minute for Jonas Sakuwaha.
However, 61st minute substitute James Chamanga who replaced Emmanuel Mayuka brought Zambia back to life albeit in the last 10 minutes.
His shot from midway through Uganda’s own half was cheekily cheated and saved by Onyango in the 68th minute.
In the 90th minute Chamanga dribbled past two Uganda defenders and unleashed a shot but Onyango saved to keep the Cranes in the race.
Zambia must beat or draw in Kampala on October 13 to avoid the ignominy of joining their predecessors Egypt who failed to qualify for the 2012 finals.
The pressure was clearly felt even in the corridors of power when Zambian sports minutes stormed the official post-match press conference to put some gloss in the African champions chances in the return leg.
“We can win the game in Kampala by 2-0 I believe we can do it since we managed to win the Africa Cup away from home which means the myth of home round advantage does not exist," Kabwili said.
"And as government we will do everything to prepare the team to get us the result that will qualify us to the Africa Cup in south Africa..even if it means hiring two or three planes we will do that."
Zambia played well,although i strongly feel that mayuka should be more aggresive on the front line.moreover,at some point the players were making desperate attempts.However,the game was well played,we just need to work on the few shortcomings.Bravo Zambia
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