FULL-TIME: Georgia 1-1 Zambia
Aleksandre Peikrishvill 73′ | Emmanuel Mutale 45′
The Zambia U-16 national team opened their UEFA U16 International Development Tournament on a losing note.
The Young Bullets suffered a 4-3 loss on post match penalties at the hands of hosts Georgia following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Aleksandre Peikrishvill leveled matters in the second half after Emmanuel Mutale had put Zambia in the lead at the blink of half time.
Georgia went on to win 4-3 on penalties. Edward Mwale, Kelvin Phiri and Emmanuel Mutale converted for Zambia while Elvis Mulenga and Mizhi Mawaya had their spot kicks saved.
Georgia scored their penalties through Aleksandre Peikrishvill, Daniel Kvartskhava, Saba Gekuchadze and Luka Bubuteishvill while Vakhtang’s effort was saved by Martin Chulu.
Head coach Aaron Kawangu was left impressed with the boys despite missed chances in the first half.
Kawangu believes it’s a learning phase for the boys and is confident the tournament will help them a lot.
“The game was exciting , our boys did very well and as we earlier said it is a developmental tournament. We are very happy with the fight the boys put in, we forge ahead for the next game,” he said.
“We created a lot of chances especially in the first half but we couldn’t convert , football being what it is, It’s a learning phase. Great tournament and great exposure for the boys.”
Zambia’s next match is against Azerbaijan on Friday 13 May.
