Frank Mojah Dzuwa and Rachael Kaphaizi
Wanderers 1-0 Jwaneng
Elgeco 1-1 Silver Strikers
Mighty Wanderers got off to a bright start in their CAF Champions League campaign after edging Botswana side, Jwaneng Galaxy 1-0 at Bingu National Stadium on Sunday in the first leg with a courtesy of Felix Zulu’s decisive strike in the 80th minute.
This was Wanderers’ first appearance in the continental competition after seven years, their last outing dating back to 2018 when they faced FC Vita of DR Congo, losing 4-0 in the first leg before going down 2-1 in the return match.
The game, which kicked off at 15:00hrs, began with both sides showing strong intent and hunger for goals, but the first half ended goalless as neither side managed to break the deadlock.
In the second half, Wanderers looked the more determined side, creating pressure in search of a breakthrough, though their forwards struggled with decision-making inside the penalty box. This left the fans calling for changes and coach Bob Mpinganjira responded by making key substitutions.
The moment finally arrived in the 80th minute when captain Felix Zulu struck to hand Wanderers the all-important goal that separated the two sides.
After the match, coach Bob Mpinganjira said he was pleased with the victory but felt his side could have converted more of the chances they created. He added that as they prepare for the return leg, the focus will be on scoring away from home to secure progression to the next round.
Mpinganjira also recognized the quality of Jwaneng Galaxy, describing them as an experienced side with players who know how to handle such competitions.
“First of all, I am very happy that we have won this game, although I would have loved it if we scored at least more than one. But a win is a win, and I am very happy,” he said.
“It’s a good team [Jwaneng], very experienced. We just need to plan well for the return match and if we get another goal away, then we are safe.”
The two sides will meet again next week in Botswana, with the winner advancing to the next stage of the competition.
Meanwhile, Silver Strikers made a return in the Champions League after four years. They managed to earn a 1-1 draw against Elgeco PLUS FC of Madagascar, thanks to Andrew Joseph’s 54th-minute equalizer, just nine minutes after coming off the bench. The last time Silver Strikers played in CAF competitions was in 2021.
Despite a one-all draw, Silver Strikers coach Eston Kadenge remains optimistic about the team’s chances at home.
“We have got an upper hand over them because we will be playing at home with the support of our fans. We are going to do better. But the team is okay, they have shown that they are prepared and they have got energy,” Kadenge observed.
The hosts struck first in the 16th minute before Joseph leveled the matters.
Lineups
Mighty Wanderers: Dalitso Khungwa, Stanly Sanudi, Emmanuel Nyirenda, Timothy Silwimba, Felix Zulu, Blessings Singini, Masiya Manda, Isaac Kaliati, Wisdom Mpinganjira, Blessings Mwalilino, Muhamad Sulumba.
Silver Strikers: George Chikooka, Maxwell Paipi, Dan Sandukira, McDonald Lameck, Nickson Mwase, Levison Maganizo, Uchizi Vunga, Binwell Katinji, Stanie Davie, Zebron Kalima, Chinsisi Maonga.
