SICHONE HAILS DAKA GOAL

By BENEDICT TEMBO

CHIPOLOPOLO coach Moses Sichone has highlighted the importance of star forward Patson Daka, scorer of Zambia’s added time equaliser against Mali on Monday.
Sichone also spoke highly of Sabobo Banda and David Simukonda, who showed character during Zambia’s opening Morocco 2025 African Cup match in Casablanca.
“I know the quality Patson brings, which is why l kept him on the pitch. I’m happy he scored today. Players like him and young talent like Sabobo Banda and David Simukonda showed character and promise,” Sichone told FAZ media
In his debut African Cup as Zambia coach, Sichone admitted the difficulty Zambia faced, starting the tournament against a strong opponent.
He said the match against a quality opponent such as Mali was always going to be difficult.
Zambia came from behind to earn a hard-fought 1-1 stalemate against Mali at the Mohammed V Stadium.
“It’s never easy to play the first game. Mali scored early because we gifted them the goal. My team struggled a bit, but I also have to praise the boys for keeping calm and ensuring we left the game at nil all at half time,” Sichone said.
The coach also came to the defence of his squad against criticism on social media.
“I want Facebook coaches to stop attacking our players and start showing them respect,” he charged.
Power Dynamos goalkeeper Willard Mwanza was another standout performer, making several saves, including a penalty.
“I was not moved by the referee’s decision to award Mali a penalty. I trusted myself completely. As the Malian came, I just looked at him and knew I was going to stop his kick.” Mwanza said.
Sichone also commented on Morocco’s 2–0 win over Comoros.
“Comoros may have lost, but they showed character. Against Zambia, they will come looking to score, so, we expect an open game,” he said.