MATCH REPORT|| KDFC Suffers Second Loss of the Season

Kansanshi Dynamos Football Club endured their second defeat of the season in a tough 2-1 loss to River Plate FC in the Week 21 fixture of the ZPL National League.

This loss also saw the end of the club’s remarkable 18-game unbeaten run, leaving the team with plenty to reflect on as they continue their pursuit of league leaders Konkola Blades, who remain six points ahead.

The game kicked off with both teams showing early intent, and it didn’t take long for the action to unfold. In the 6th minute, Kizito delivered a well-weighted cross into the box, but Kelvin Chisamba struggled to control the ball, and it went out of play, signalling an early missed opportunity for KDFC.

The hosts took full advantage of the moment and opened the scoring in the 10th minute. A defensive error by Kansanshi allowed Boyd Kauya to pounce, giving River Plate a 1-0 lead.

Just seven minutes later, River Plate doubled their advantage in the 17th minute. Golden Zansi was in the right place at the right time, finishing off a well-executed move to make it 2-0.

Kansanshi Dynamos, although trailing, were not without their chances. In the 30th minute, Kelvin Chisamba found himself in a dangerous position, getting on the end of a cross, but his header just missed the target, denying the team a potential comeback goal.

With the halftime whistle approaching, Coach Zeddy Saileti opted for two changes, bringing on Mike Zozi and Rabson Mumba for Clinton Lunula and Julius Mwanza, hoping to spark a change in momentum.

The second half started with renewed energy for KDFC, and it didn’t take long for Dalitso Lungu, who had been introduced at halftime for Kelvin Chisamba, to make an impact. In the 46th minute, Lungu pulled a goal back for Kansanshi, giving the team hope of turning the game around.

As the match progressed, Kansanshi looked for an equalizer, and in the 58th minute, a cross from Lukonde found Tranquilin Mwepu. However, his header went wide, much to the frustration of the team, as another opportunity slipped away.

River Plate nearly extended their lead in the 62nd minute when Benson Mwale unleashed a powerful shot that hit the post, but Kansanshi was fortunate to escape without further damage.

With the game winding down, KDFC pushed forward, and in the 84th minute, Dalitso Lungu thought he had scored the equalizer. However, the goal was ruled out for offside, much to the disappointment of the players and fans.

In the 85th minute, Coach Saileti made his final substitutions, bringing on Thomas Tembo and Chali Mulaisho for Rodgers Chitambala and Kizito Kezeron, hoping to add fresh legs in the final stages.