Zambia U-17 Boys Stun Mexico in Dubai Friendly
The Zambia Under-17 national team produced a spirited second-half performance to beat Mexico 3-1 in a thrilling international friendly played behind closed doors at the Al Hamriya Cultural and Sports Centre in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Monday evening.
The match, used by both technical benches as part of preparations and player assessment, kicked off under the desert sun with both teams showing early caution. Despite the lack of spectators and live broadcast, the intensity on the pitch spoke volumes of the young Chipolopolo’s ambition.
Zambia captain Jonathan Kalimina marshalled the defence impressively in the early minutes, repelling several Mexican attacks, while goalkeeper Christo Chitambala made crucial early saves to keep the game level. Zambia grew in confidence and began creating clear chances — Kelvin Chipelu and Abel Salim Nyirongo both missing close-range opportunities within minutes of each other.
The referee waved away Zambia’s penalty appeals in the 21st minute after Nyirongo appeared to have been fouled in the box, and the miss proved costly moments later when Mexico took the lead in the 25th minute following a lapse in concentration at the back.
The young Copper Bullets responded swiftly. In the 33rd minute, Chipelu was brought down inside the area, and Abel Salim Nyirongo confidently slotted home the resulting penalty to make it 1–1. The equalizer lifted Zambia’s spirits, and they ended the first half in control of proceedings, with Kalimina coming close again from a free kick that sailed just over the bar.
The second half saw Zambia impose their rhythm, with Chipelu and Mapalo Simute dazzling in midfield. Chipelu forced a fine save from the Mexican goalkeeper in the 57th minute, while Felix Phiri narrowly missed converting a low cross shortly after.
Zambia’s persistence paid off in the 88th minute when captain Jonathan Kalimina curled in a superb free kick to give the young Chipolopolo a 2–1 lead. As Mexico pushed forward in stoppage time, Zambia punished them on the counter — substitute Robert “Sugar” Banda bursting through the defence to score a stunning solo goal, sealing a memorable 3–1 victory.
The win marks a strong statement from coach Ian Bakala’s charges as they continue their international build-up matches in the UAE ahead of future continental engagements.
Fulltime: Mexico 1–3 Zambia
Zambia scorers: Abel Salim Nyirongo (33’), Jonathan Kalimina (88’), Robert Banda (90+5’)
