Brazil were forced to come from behind to salvage a draw against a spirited Zambia side in their final Group H match at the ongoing FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.
With both teams already through to the round of 32, the coaches still named strong line-ups as they battled for top spot.
Brazil dominated the early stages but were stunned in the 26th minute when Jonathan Kalimina scored directly from a corner to hand the Southern African side a surprise lead.
The four-time champions pushed for an equaliser, but Dennis Makinka’s charges remained resolute in defence, frustrating the South Americans.
After the break, Brazil increased the pressure, only to be denied by two brilliant saves from goalkeeper Caristo Chitambala.
Their persistence eventually paid off when the Zambian backline failed to clear a cross, allowing Brazil to draw level.
Both teams finished on seven points, but Brazil topped the group thanks to a superior goal difference.
In the other Group H match, Indonesia claimed their first-ever victory at this level by defeating Honduras.
Makinka fielded the same starting XI that beat Honduras in the previous fixture.
Sporting Lusaka captain James Sibeene returned to his natural midfield role after being deployed at centre-back earlier in the tournament.
Kafue Celtic’s Nelson Chilemu partnered Levison Banda in central defence, while Atletico Lusaka’s Abel Nyirongo led the attack alongside Mapalo Simute and Kelvin Chipelu.
Felix Phiri and Lukonde Mwale joined Sibeene in midfield.
Zambia XI:Caristo Chitambala – Andrew Mwape, Levison Banda, Nelson Chilemu, Jonathan Kalimina – James Sibeene, Felix Phiri, Lukonde Mwale (Robert Banda 78’) – Mapalo Simute (Nthasilwe Malupande 72’), Kelvin Chipelu (Daniel Silubonde 72’), Abel Salim Nyirongo.
