Kansanshi Dynamos fought back from behind to secure a hard-earned draw in their Week 11 fixture away to Kafue Eagles.
The match officiated by Kasama female referee Anester Bwalya, was a an exciting one, with both teams vying for all three points but ultimately settling for one each in front of a lively Kafue fan base.
The hosts signaled their intent early, opening the scoring in the 8th minute. Joseph Phiri capitalized on a misplayed KDFC throw-in that allowed him to beat Gregory Sanjase and put Kafue Eagles ahead.
Kafue continued to press, seeking to extend their lead and keep Kansanshi on the back foot. In the 28th minute, Marcel Kalonda made a crucial goal-line clearance to prevent a second goal.
Just two minutes later, Kafue had another chance but sent their shot wide.
Kansanshi Dynamos began creating their own chances in response. In the 32nd minute, Marcel Kalonda’s powerful header looked destined for the back of the net, but the Kafue goalkeeper managed to parry it away. Tranqulin Mwepu followed up on the loose ball but narrowly missed.
As Kansanshi looked to level the game, Mathews Mwale delivered a beautifully taken free kick in the 41st minute, but once again, the Eagles’ goalkeeper was up to the task, denying Mwale an equalizer.
Just before halftime, Dalitso Lungu seized a golden opportunity in stoppage time. Benefiting from a Kizito Kezeron pass, Lungu made no mistake in finding the back of the net, scoring his sixth goal of the season and bringing Kansanshi level at the break.
Kansanshi came out strong in the second half, with Kizito Kezeron breaking through the Eagles’ defense in the 52nd minute. However, he couldn’t convert a one-on-one opportunity with the goalkeeper.
Moments later, Remmy Chanda made a brilliant goal-line clearance to keep Kansanshi in the game.
In the 60th minute, Kizito Kezeron had another opportunity, firing a powerful shot that forced an exceptional save from the Kafue goalkeeper.
This Eagles side continued to apply pressure, and in the 71st minute, Mathews Mutambo made a critical clearance off the line to deny them a lead once again.
In the 76th minute, Dave Daka nearly found the winner for Kansanshi, but the hosts managed to clear the ball out for a corner.
After the match, head coach Zeddy Saileti commented on his team’s performance:
“The boys relaxed a bit and underestimated our opponents, especially in the first half. The pitch was challenging, and we got caught off guard early. But in the second half, we improved, and I’m proud of how they fought back. We’ll take the point on the road.” The coach said.
With this draw, Kansanshi Dynamos moves to 24 points, remaining in second place on the league table. Konkola Blades lead with 26 points and have a game tomorrow.
Kansanshi will host Jumulo FC next weekend in their Week 12 National League match.
Substitutions;
Rabson Mumba in for Tranquilin Mwepu – 45’
Dave Daka in for Mathews Mwale – 68’
Mike Zozi in for Timothy Sakala – 88’
