Red Arrows opened their CAF Confederation Cup campaign on a winning note after defeating Madagascar’s FC Rouge 2-0 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Saturday.
The Airmen controlled much of the first half and created several promising opportunities before finally breaking the deadlock in the 39th minute.
Ackim Mumba was at the heart of Red Arrows’ attacking play, delivering a delightful cross into the box that picked out Eliya Mundanji, who made no mistake with a well-directed header to put the hosts 1-0 ahead.
Arrows had earlier threatened through a number of chances. Mumba’s free-kick forced the FC Rouge goalkeeper into a spill, although no Arrows player was quick enough to capitalise on the rebound.
Eliya Mandanji also came close after cutting inside and firing from distance, while Alassane Diarra narrowly missed with a header from another Mumba delivery.
The Airmen could have gone into the break with a bigger advantage, with Brian Chilimina and Paul Katema both missing good opportunities as Arrows piled on the pressure.
Red Arrows continued their dominance after the restart and doubled their advantage in the 57th minute through Alassane Diarra, giving the Zambian side a comfortable 2-0 cushion.
Head coach Chisi Mbewe made changes as the game progressed, introducing Munda Phiri and Lazarous Chishimba for Saddam Yusuf Phiri and Godfrey Ngwenya in a double substitution.
Arrows continued to look dangerous, with Peter Kalota forcing another intervention from the FC Rouge goalkeeper with a dangerous free-kick.
Further changes followed in the 72nd minute, with Mandanji and Ackim Mumba making way for John Kanyembo Pweto and Joseph Phiri.
FC Rouge struggled to contain the Airmen’s attacking threat, particularly on the counter. In the 77th minute, Diarra came close to adding a third when he raced through on goal and attempted to chip the advancing goalkeeper, only for the Malagasy shot-stopper to produce an excellent save and tip the effort over the bar.
Red Arrows ultimately held on for a 2-0 victory, securing a positive start to their CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
Red Arrows 2-0 FC Rouge
⚽ 39′ Eliya Mundanji
⚽ 57′ Alassane Diarra
