U-17 World Cup: Makinka praises Zambia maturity and determination after win

Zambia U-17 national team delivered a commanding performance to defeat Honduras 5-2 in their second Group H fixture at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, sealing qualification to the knockout stage with a game to spare.

The young Chipolopolo started brightly, showing confidence and control from the opening whistle. Kelvin Chipelu opened the scoring in the fifth minute after a clever exchange with Jonathan Kalimina, before Felix Phiri doubled the advantage nine minutes later.

Zambia’s dominance continued as James Sibeene made it 3-0 before halftime, capping off an impressive attacking display. Honduras reduced the deficit through Yeison Arriola, making it 3-1 at the break.

In the second half, the Central Americans briefly threatened a comeback when David Ramirez struck in the 54th minute, but Zambia quickly restored control. Substitute Billy Daka netted Zambia’s fourth in the 74th minute before Abel Nyirongo sealed victory with a late strike to make it 5-2.

Winning first two matches is massive for Zambia

Speaking after the match, head coach Dennis Makinka praised his side’s maturity and determination.

“It’s a great feeling. We knew this game would be difficult because Honduras were coming from a loss, and such teams usually fight very hard,” he told FAZ Media.

“Winning our first two matches at a World Cup is massive for the country and for the boys. The intensity dropped slightly in parts of the game, but overall, I’m proud of their focus and teamwork.”

Looking ahead to the final group match against Brazil, Makinka said his team would stay grounded but ambitious.

“Brazil will be a tough opponent, but we’ll prepare well and aim for another good result. Finishing top of the group gives us a better route in the knockout stage, so we’ll give everything in that game,” he added.

Zambia are second in Group H behind Brazil

Man of the Match Jonathan Kalimina, who provided two assists, expressed his excitement after the victory.

“I’m really happy with the performance. We worked hard as a team, and this win means a lot. We’ve been together since COSAFA, and our understanding keeps improving. We’ll train even harder and stay disciplined for the next game against Brazil,” he said.

The result puts Zambia on six points, level with Brazil but separated by goal difference, as they head into their final Group H fixture. The young Chipolopolo are now second in Group H with six points, the same number as leaders Brazil.\

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