By Precious Bwale
Red Arrows returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Democratic Republic of Congo side AS Simba in the second round of the Pre-Season International Tournament at Arthur Davies Stadium.
John Kanyembo Pweto marked his debut for the Airmen in spectacular fashion, scoring a stunning long-range goal in the 58th minute to settle an entertaining and closely contested encounter.
Red Arrows started brightly, with Lazarous Chishimba going close inside the opening two minutes after beating his marker before firing wide.
The Airmen gradually took control, moving the ball confidently and patiently in search of an opening. Ackim Mumba tested the AS Simba goalkeeper with a powerful effort, while Ngwenya came close with an acrobatic bicycle kick from Mumba’s cross shortly before half-time.
Paul Katema was also denied at close range as Red Arrows continued to threaten, but the sides went into the break level.
The breakthrough arrived 13 minutes into the second half.
Making his debut after replacing Joseph Phiri, Pweto collected the ball outside the box and unleashed a powerful strike that flew beyond the goalkeeper, giving him no chance.
Red Arrows continued to push for a second, with Chishimba firing over the bar before Moyela Libamba and Jonathan Mada were introduced for Godfrey Ngwenya and Chishimba.
AS Simba created opportunities of their own in the closing stages, but Red Arrows defended resolutely, with goalkeeper Lukas Mainza making an important save to preserve the lead.
Further changes saw Patson Mphade and Lewis Mwachisemo come on for Brian Chilimina and Mumba as Red Arrows managed the closing stages with composure.
The victory leaves Red Arrows on three points, level with Power Dynamos, while Zesco United lead the four-team standings after winning both of their opening matches.
Zesco United beat Power Dynamos 1–0 earlier on Thursday to move to six points, having scored twice without conceding.
The tournament concludes in Ndola on Friday, with Levy Mwanawasa Stadium hosting the final two matches.
With Zesco United leading and Power Dynamos and Red Arrows both on three points, the final round promises to provide a decisive conclusion to the competition.
