Sierra Leone suffer first defeat, Zambia still unbeaten

by Staff Reporter

Wednesday May 07, 2025. 11:00

South Africa brought an end to Sierra Leone’s unbeaten start at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, while Zambia boosted their chances of reaching the knockout stages at Egypt’s expense.

Zambia remain undefeated at the tournament after they clinched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Tanzania at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia on Thursday evening.

Junior Chipolopolo’s continued participation in Egypt looked to be under threat until they won a penalty deep into stoppage time which was converted by Joseph Banda in the 101st minute.

Chisi Mbewe’s side moved up to third place in Group A on five points, one ahead of the host nation with one game left to play for both teams.

In the late kick-off at the same venue, South Africa stunned leaders Sierra Leone 4-1 to put themselves in a strong position to qualify for the quarter-finals.

Jody Ah Shene gave Amajita the lead after just 13 minutes and Neo Rapoo doubled their advantage on the hour mark before Momoh Kamara pulled one back for the Shooting Stars nine minutes later.

However, a quickfire brace from Thabang Mahlangu (86′, 89′) in the closing stages secured a second successive victory for Raymond Mdaka’s side which took them within a point of the West Africans, who have already played four games.

Tuesday’s results:

Zambia 1-0 Tanzania

Sierra Leone 1-4 South Africa