Zambia gave a good account of themselves despite going down 2 – 0 to Brazil in a friendly match plaat the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing, China.
Jacob Mulenga, Fwayo Tembo and Emmanuel Mayuka were a handful for the Brazilian defence while Kabaso Chongo, Hichani Himonde, Brosonson Chama and Emmanuel Mbola held their own to prevent the five-time champions from taking the lead in the first half.
There was very little that could be done about the goals that were eventually scored by Brazil in the second half.
Brazil broke the deadlock on the hour mark through Oscar whose effort from range deflected off Kabaso Chongo before dipping into Mweene’s goal. The second came six minute later with defender Dede heading in from inside the box after he got at the end of Neymar’s free kick.
Brazil had several chances to break the deadlock in the first half, the best falling to Neymar whose effort from a free kick 25 metres out hit the woodwork in the third minute. Daniel Alves and Ramires also went close from inside the area but their efforts went wide.
Zambia had chances too. Emmanuel Mbola tested Diego Cavalieri with a long range shot on sixteen minutes while Jacob Mulenga had a glorious chance in the second half but his hurried shot was weak.
Brazil continued to press after they scored their two goals but it was the Chipolopolo who finished the game stronger.
Zambia coach Patrice Beaumelle told fazfootball.com in a post-match interview that he was happy with the display by his boys
“We had a good game. Boys played well, we made two mistakes, they cost us but overall am satisfied. The boys showed a lot of determination and heart and showed the world and Africa that they belong to this high level,” said Beaumelle
Liuz Felipe Scolari said Zambia was competitive and made the game difficult for his team.
“Zambia is a great team. They made it difficult for us because they were very competitive. We are satisfied with the result but am sure Zambia is too. They’re a great team who work for each other,” said the 2002 Fifa World Cup winning coach
