Zambia need 'wake-up call' after Banyana Banyana defeat – Kundananji

Photo Credit - Football Association of Zambia (FAZ).

Zambia striker Rachael Kundananji has urged her teammates to take their recent defeat to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana seriously, describing it as a wake-up call.

Banyana wrapped up the Three Nations Challenge in style on Tuesday, defeating Zambia 2-0 at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville in a tightly contested and often physical clash between the two neighbours.

After a 0-0 first half, Banyana cranked up the intensity in the second period, with Bongeka Gamede breaking the deadlock in the 74th minute with a stunning free-kick – her first goal for coach Dr Desiree’s Ellis’ side.

The momentum stayed with Banyana and Jermaine Seoposenwe doubled the lead in the 82nd minute to secure the win and the tournament title.

“I think [preparations] are going well, and having these two friendly matches is an eye opener to see where we are lacking and where we should work on toward the WAFCON,” said the 25-year-old, as quoted by SABC Sports.

“I feel like this was good motivation for players, knowing that losing today after doing our level best should push us to work extra hard and correct our mistakes.”

On her overall view of the game, she said: “They gave us a good game, and I think we were winning [the battle] despite missing chances, and I think we need to utilise our chances.

“Because if we scored in the first half, I think we could have been talking about [the result] the other way, and not the way it eventually went.”

Zambia, who came into the fixture after a 1-1 draw with Botswana a few days ago, posed a tough test for Banyana Banyana throughout the game.