3 OUT OF 3

By BARNABAS ZULU

ZAMBIA U20 women’s national team made it three wins from three at the ongoing 2024 COSAFA U20 Women’s Championship, thrashing Botswana 6-0 to maintain their spot at the top of the standings and remain on course for the tournament title.
The young Copper Queens got off to a blistering start, taking the lead in the opening minute of the match.
Just 45 seconds in, Jacqueline Nambeye pounced on a loose ball in the box after Botswana failed to clear a corner, slamming home from close range to give Zambia an early advantage.
Zambia’s attacking dominance continued, but they had to wait until the 35th minute to double their lead. Saliya Mwanza, in superb form, added a stunning low drive from outside the box, beating the Botswana goalkeeper to make it 2-0. Coach Charles Haalubono made two substitutions before the break, introducing Mary Mukupa and debutante Gift Kalwizhi in place of Lubasi Pumulo and Bwalya Namute Chileshe.
Kalwizhi wasted no time in making an impact, as she set up Mary Mbewe for a clinical finish in the 41st minute, extending Zambia’s lead to 3-0 before halftime.
The second half saw more of the same from Zambia as they pressed for more goals. In the 65th minute, substitute Ruth Muwowo’s cross was deflected into the Botswana net by defender Ivy Mankgatau, making it 4-0.
The Zambians weren’t done yet, as Edith Phiri got in on the action in the 79th minute, scoring the fifth goal with a composed finish.
Muwowo capped off the comprehensive victory in the 83rd minute, rounding off a brilliant team performance with her own goal, securing a 6-0 win.
With the perfect record intact, Zambia now turn their attention to the final group match against Mozambique, which they will need only a draw to claim the title.
The win is the third one as Zambia as recorded three wins in a row against South Africa, Lesotho and now Botswana.