Konkola Blades head coach Beston Chambeshi praised his players’ discipline and tactical maturity after their 1–0 victory over in a rescheduled Week 18 fixture.
Steven Mutama’s superb free kick proved decisive as Blades secured a significant result at home — their first win over ZESCO in more than a decade — to boost their campaign.
Chambeshi, a former Zambia international, said the performance was built on structure, focus and collective commitment against one of the league’s most experienced sides.
“First of all, I want to thank the players for the discipline and commitment they showed today,” he said. “ZESCO United is a very strong and experienced side, so coming into this game we knew it would require focus for the full 90 minutes.”
The former Chipolopolo striker highlighted how closely his side adhered to their tactical approach, limiting ZESCO’s attacking threats while remaining patient in possession.
“I am very proud of the boys. We executed our game plan well, we were compact defensively, we managed transitions properly, and we were patient when we had the ball. The 1–0 scoreline might look narrow, but tactically the players followed instructions and showed great maturity.”
Blades were forced to withstand late pressure as ZESCO pushed for an equaliser, but held firm to claim all three points in front of an energetic home crowd.
“At home, we always talk about making our ground a fortress,” Chambeshi said. “Despite it being a weekday fixture, the supporters were incredible today; they turned out in huge numbers which pushed us in difficult moments, especially towards the end when ZESCO increased the pressure. This victory is for them.”
While the result marks a notable milestone for the Chililabombwe-based side, Chambeshi was quick to temper expectations, stressing that consistency will determine their season.
“However, this is just three points. We remain humble and focused. There are still many games to play, and consistency is what will define our season. We will recover well and start preparing for the next fixture which is this coming Sunday against Nkwazi FC at home.
Congratulations to the players for the fighting spirit, and we thank the fans for standing with us.”
With momentum on their side and confidence growing, Blades will now look to build on a victory that not only delivered points — but signalled renewed belief under Chambeshi’s leadership.
