U-17 World Cup: Makinka concedes Mali overpowered Zambia in certain moments

Zambia national team U-17 head coach Dennis Makinka expressed deep pride in the team’s achievement despite failing to progress past the Round of 32 at the FIFA-U-17 World Cup in Qatar on Friday.

The Junior Chipolopolo’s impressive campaign came to an end after a spirited but challenging 3-1 defeat against African side Mali at the Aspire Zone in Al Rayyan. Mali struck first early in the second half when Raymond Bomba finished off a quick transition in the 51st minute.

Zambia responded almost immediately through a well-taken goal by Mapalo Simute in the 63rd minute after good work from the right wing, giving hope of another comeback from the Junior Chipolopolo.

But the West Africans, finalists in 2015, showed their experience and physical edge, regaining the lead in the 85th minute through Seydou Dembele before Lamine Keita sealed the tie in added time. Speaking after the game, Makinka praised his team’s effort and acknowledged the challenges they faced against a physically dominant Malian side.

Zambia made two mistakes that gifted Mali goals

“We lacked a bit of speed today and didn’t rise to the level we showed in previous games. We came back into the match but made two mistakes that gifted them goals,” Makinka said as quoted by FAZ Media.

“We always knew it would be a tough and physical match. Mali overpowered us in certain moments, that’s football. It’s about how you apply yourself on the pitch, and today it didn’t work out for us. Hard luck to the boys; they really wanted to win.

“This is their first time participating at this stage, and they came out of the group unbeaten. That alone is massive. Credit to the boys, they have done extremely well. Now we need a plan to keep this group together. There’s something special here for the future of Zambian football.”

In his message to the Zambian fans, he said: “To the Zambian people, thank you for the massive support. We are sorry for today’s result, but your encouragement has carried us. Please continue supporting the boys. FAZ gave us everything we needed, including the Dubai friendlies, and we are grateful. We will come back stronger.”

Mali will now face Morocco in another all African clash in the Round of 16. Morocco qualified for the stage following their 4-3 penalty shootout win after a 1-1 outcome in regulation time.

Egypt are also out of the competition following a 1-3 defeat to Switzerland. An efficient start for the Swiss saw the European representatives go ahead 2-0 by halftime. The North Africans remained on the defensive, conceding another goal early in the second half before getting a consolation goal from Anas Roshdy late on.

On Saturday, Senegal will face Uganda in an early match from the Round of 32. South Africa faces Japan, Burkina Faso will clash with Germany and Tunisia takes on Austria.

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