Spencer Sautu came from the bench to head a late equalizer that rescued a point for Chipolopolo in Saturday’s match. The result means after two games played, Zambia is second in Group D and level on 4 points with log leaders Guinea going into the final fixtures of the group stage. Third place is occupied by Tanzania with 3 points followed by bottom-placed Namibia whose elimination has already been confirmed.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Sautu bemoaned the missed opportunity to collect maximum points.
“It was very disappointing. As a team, we had set this game as a must-win so that we qualify for the quarter-finals”, he said.
He added, “Nevertheless, it’s unfortunate. That’s the name of the game. It was good we managed to equalize. We pick it up from there as we play the next game. That one (the next match) is a must-win for us so that we make it to the next round.”
When asked how he felt about coming from the bench to score the equalizing goal and if at all he had felt the game was lost while coming on, Sautu had this say.
“I never felt we had lost that game. You know football is played until the last minute. For me, I kept on believing. No wonder even when I came from the bench, I just kept believing in myself until the last minute. And thank God, the goal came”, he remarked.
On the final group game against Namibia, Sautu emphasized the need for caution.
“First of all, that game is not going to be easy. Because Namibians play a quick game. We will be ready for them. Looking at the fact that we didn’t get a win in this game (against Guinea), it will be more like a cup final for us.”
He concluded. “Failure to win the game against Namibia will be doom for us. So, we just need to go full out, like a cup final, to make it to the next round.”
With Guinea and Tanzania both still in contention to qualify, the Chipolopolo boys must win against Namibia to ensure passage to the next round. Coach Micho will be wary of the threat posed by Namibia, who although have already been eliminated, will be looking to cause an upset. Zambia’s match against Namibia will be held on 27 January 2021. Kick-off time 21. 00 (CAT).
