Zambia Qualify for U-17 World Cup After Thrilling Win Over Uganda
Zambia’s U-17 national team has booked their spot in the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations and, more significantly, secured qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup, following a dramatic 2-1 victory over Uganda. A late strike by Billy Daka proved decisive in a tense encounter that saw Zambia finish second in Group A, behind group leaders Morocco.
First-Half Breakthrough by Chipelu
In a match where both sides knew what was at stake, it was Zambia who struck first. In the 20th minute, a momentary lapse in concentration by the Ugandan defence allowed Kelvin Chipelu to pounce and fire the ball home, putting the Junior Chipolopolo in the driving seat.
The goal gave Zambia the edge going into halftime, and with a place in the quarterfinals — and a ticket to the U-17 World Cup — hanging in the balance, every touch and decision became critical.
Uganda’s Quick Response After the Break
Uganda responded with urgency and intensity after the restart. Just four minutes into the second half, Elvis Torach found the equalizer with a well-taken effort in the 49th minute to make it 1-1, reigniting Uganda’s hopes of advancing.
The match evolved into a tactical battle, with both teams cautious in their approach, knowing a single mistake could prove fatal.
Billy Daka’s Heroic Winner Seals Zambia’s Fate
With the clock ticking and the tie poised on a knife-edge, Zambia found their hero in Billy Daka. In the 86th minute, Daka rose to the occasion, coolly finishing to restore Zambia’s lead and effectively end Uganda’s hopes.
The Junior Chipolopolo held on in the final moments to claim a 2-1 victory, ensuring their progression to the quarterfinals of the continental tournament and clinching one of Africa’s coveted spots at the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Looking Ahead: Quarterfinals and World Cup Preparations
Zambia’s win not only signals their growing strength at youth level but also offers a golden opportunity for development on the global stage. With their place at the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 now secured, attention will shift to the quarterfinal stage of the CAF U-17 AFCON, where Zambia will look to continue their impressive campaign.
Conclusion
Zambia’s young stars have delivered when it mattered most, showing composure, resilience, and clinical finishing to outlast Uganda in a must-win encounter. With goals from Kelvin Chipelu and Billy Daka, the Junior Chipolopolo not only booked their place in the CAF U-17 AFCON quarterfinals but also punched their ticket to the global stage in 2025.
