U-20 AFCON: Debutants Sierra Leone surprise Zambia in goalless draw

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Debutants Sierra Leone held one-time champions Zambia to a goalless draw in the curtain-raising match from the 2025 African U-20 Nations Cup in Egypt. The Shooting Stars showed great character to surprise Zambia during the ninety minutes.

It was an evenly matched affair but Sierra Leone threatened to score in the first half. Amara Keita forced a save from Zambian goalie Levison Banda from a direct corner before Samuel Gandi missed the target, missing the chance to hand Sierra Leone the lead.

The Young Chipolopolo came close through their captain Joseph Banda's free-kick effort which sailed wide. In the dying moments of the first half, Zambia missed a clear-cut chance when Pascol Phiri ran from midfield but failed to get the ball into the net.

Following the resumption, Zambia looked the better side but creating chances was still something they lacked during the half. Andrew Mulenga missed an absolute sitter while Sierra Leone had a goal ruled out after a VAR intervention.

Sierra Leone began their U-20 AFCON on a successful note with the scoreless draw in Group A. Complacency hugely affected this Zambian side as they were the clear favorites to win the tie. Sierra Leone’s European-based contingent made a difference for the Shooting Stars in their debut match at the U-20 AFCON.