The Zambia U16 Boys National Team will be looking to get their 2022 UEFA Under-16 International Development campaign back on track when they take on Azerbaijan in a must-win match at the GFF Football Academy in Rustavi, Georgia.
Aaron Kawangu’s boys were blown away by a 4-3 penalty shootout loss to hosts Georgia after the match ended 1-1, and a win in this afternoon’s match could send Zambia top of the group with four points.
According to the tournament rules, if the scores are level at the end of normal time, no extra time will be played, but kicks from the penalty mark will determine the winning team, with five penalty kicks for each team and a sudden death system if the scores are still level.
Three points are awarded for winning in normal time, no points are awarded for losing in normal time, a point is awarded for losing on penalties and two points are awarded for winning on penalties.
This means that Zambia got a point from the Georgia match while the latter settled for two points. Kawangu hinted after Thursday’s training session that the technical bench might make a few changes in the first eleven in search of their first win.
Although it could still be Martin Chulu in goal, Central province-based goalkeeper Jeyhro Zulu is in line to make his debut while shake-ups may come mainly in defence and midfield.
The coach is expected to keep creative midfielder Emmanuel Mutale on the left while Emmanuel Mwanza, who tormented the back four on the right, could still partner Luketekelo Joram Kapowa upfront.
The match will kick-off at 15h00 CAT. Georgia are on bye and their next match is against Azerbaijan on Monday 16 May.
(By FAZ Media )
