Kansanshi Dynamos put in a spirited performance but fell to a narrow 1–0 defeat to Red Arrows in their MTN Super League Week 24 encounter played at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka.
The hosts made the early breakthrough in the 12th minute, when Mubili Nickson found the back of the net to give Red Arrows the lead.
Kansanshi Dynamos responded eight minutes later. In the 20th minute, Kizito Keziron tried his luck with an effort on goal, but Arrows goalkeeper Charles Kalumba collected the ball comfortably.
Goalkeeper Gwazani Banda was then called into action in the 23rd minute, producing a good save to deny Alassane Diarra. Arrows recycled the ball back into the area and attempted another effort, but the attack was halted after the hosts were flagged offside.
Banda continued to impress between the posts, making another superb save in the 40th minute to prevent Red Arrows from doubling their advantage before the break.
The Mabanga Boys kept pushing in the second half in search of an equaliser. In the 68th minute, Kalonji Mwepu directed a header towards goal inside the penalty area, but Kalumba reacted quickly to make the save. Moments later, Arrows launched a counterattack with Joseph Phiri breaking into space after being set up by Shipanuka, but he failed to capitalise despite having Kangwanda available on the right.
Two minutes later, Francisco Madinga attempted a shot from distance, but the effort was blocked by the Red Arrows defence.
Kansanshi Dynamos made a change in the 82nd minute, introducing Julius Mwanza in place of Francisco Madinga as they looked to find a late equaliser.
Despite the late push, the hosts held firm to secure the narrow victory.
Full Time:
Red Arrows 1–0 Kansanshi Dynamos
Post-Match Reaction – Assistant Coach Dennis Makinka
Assistant coach Dennis Makinka felt his side created chances but failed to convert them.
“We had our moments, but for them they utilised the best chance they had and they scored. We also had chances that I thought we could have converted, but again it’s the same story of missing opportunities. We just need to work extra hard. The boys gave it their all and fought until the last whistle.”
Looking ahead to the next match against Kabwe Warriors, Makinka believes his team must respond positively.
“Going into the next game we have no option but to push. It will be another tough match against a strong team enjoying good form, but I trust my boys. I believe in them and I know what they can do. On a good day they will deliver.”
Makinka also acknowledged the challenges posed by travel and a tight fixture schedule.
“The travel definitely has an impact. We played on Saturday, rested Sunday and travelled on Monday. It’s difficult to find a pitch to train on when we come to Lusaka, and the journey itself is about 13 to 14 hours. The fatigue from travelling affects the players, but we are trying to manage the load and keep the squad fresh.”
