Zambia’s Junior Chipolopolo recorded a second victory on Wednesday, beating Niger 2-0 in the Tier B Round of 16 at the ongoing FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Goals from Benson Bwalya and Maxen Msimuko secured the win for Brian Kunsanama’s side, capping an impressive day for the young Zambians, who had earlier stunned England 3-2 in the Tier B Round of 32.
The victory over Niger followed a memorable comeback against England, in which Zambia recovered from a two-goal deficit to secure a dramatic win.
England had taken control through Tom McLaughlin and Ty Livesey, but Msimuko pulled one back before half-time. Samuel Musonda then restored parity after the break before Chrispine Katoba completed the turnaround to send the Junior Chipolopolo through.
Zambia carried that momentum into their meeting with Niger, with Bwalya and Msimuko finding the net to secure another victory and keep the team’s campaign on track.
The two wins in a single day underline the Junior Chipolopolo’s resilience and attacking threat as they continue their pursuit of success in Azerbaijan.
The tournament, running from October 24 to 30, features an eight-a-side format designed to provide young footballers with international competition and development opportunities.
With their latest victory, Zambia advance beyond the Round of 16 and will look to maintain their momentum in the remaining stages of the Tier B competition.
