Jackson Mwanza’s second half brace gave Zesco United a 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns in a highly entertaining CAF Champions League semi final first leg match played at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola this afternoon.
Mwanza scored in the 54th and 66th minute to hand the home side a comfortable lead but they switched off late on and allowed Sundowns to sneak in a precious away goal through dangerman Khama Billiat.
In the early stages of the match, George Lwandamina’s men took the game to the visitors, but their decision-making in the box failed to yield results.
However, in the ninth minute, Denis Onyango made a wonderful save to deny Jesse Jackson Were in a one-on-one situation in front of goal.
Against the run of play, Sundowns moved forward in the middle of the park, allowing Tiyani Mabunda to take a shot which was saved by keeper Jacob Banda in the 13th minute.
The first half ended goalless, though there was no lack of attacking intent from either team.
In the 54th minute, Mwanza put the hosts in front when he headed a wonderful cross from the right flank to beat Onyango on his far post.
Two minutes later Mwanza completed his brace when he scored with a deflected free-kick that beat Onyango’s, with the goalkeeper protesting for offside.
The Brazilians were under pressure in the final 10 minutes as Zesco nearly scored their third goal, but Asavela Mbekile made a crucial touch to deny the hosts in the box.
Substitute Anthony Laffor came close to bagging one for the South Africans when he received a flick on from Kekana on the right, only for the Liberian to see his well struck shot go just over the cross bar.
With three minutes to go, Billiat scored what may prove a vital goal for the away side, beating Banda at his near post with a low strike.
In the end, the Brazilians pushed for a second goal, but it was too late as Team Ya Ziko held on to their 2-1 lead.
The second leg is scheduled to be staged in South Africa on Saturday, 24 September 2016.