Chitapankwa Youth Academy Edge Past Nakonde Titans Queens

In a tightly contested league match held at the Kasama Boys ground on 1st December 2024, Chitapankwa Youth Academy emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win over Nakonde Titans Queens. The match kicked off at 10:00 am and was witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters, who were treated to a display of determination and skill from both sides.

Chitapankwa Youth Academy lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, which provided a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions to attack. Dyness Kabwe took her place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Judith Kaleo on the right, Bertha Daka and Jane Mumba in central defence, and Ruth Mulenga on the left. The midfield was composed of Patricia Chewe on the right, Angela Mulenga and Diana Lutandula centrally, and Patricia Mulenga on the left. Up front, Mwamba Kangwa and Elizabeth Nakawala formed the striking partnership, tasked with converting chances into goals.

The substitutes for Chitapankwa included Sandra Mutale and Mary Chewe, who were poised to make an impact should the need arise during the match.

The first half saw both teams probing for openings, but neither could find the back of the net. The Chitapankwa defence, marshalled by Daka and Mumba, held firm against the Titans’ advances, while the midfield battled fiercely for control of the game. The tactical substitution of Judith Kaleo for Sandra Mutale in the 30th minute was a strategic move aimed at bolstering the right flank, as Chitapankwa sought to exploit any weaknesses in the Titans' formation.

As the match progressed into the second half, Chitapankwa began to assert more dominance. The breakthrough came in the 56th minute when Mwamba Kangwa converted a penalty with a well-placed shot from close range, sending the home crowd into raptures. This goal not only showcased Kangwa's composure under pressure but also highlighted the importance of set pieces in tight encounters.

With the lead established, Chitapankwa continued to defend resolutely, with Kabwe making crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet. The Titans pressed for an equaliser, but the Chitapankwa backline remained resolute, thwarting their efforts time and again.

In the 75th minute, Chitapankwa was forced to make another substitution as Patricia Mulenga was replaced by Mary Chewe due to injury. This change was crucial as it allowed the team to maintain their shape and continue to defend their slender lead.

As the match drew to a close, Nakonde Titans Queens struggled to find a way through the disciplined Chitapankwa defence. The referee's whistle confirmed the final score of 1-0, securing a vital three points for Chitapankwa Youth Academy. Mwamba Kangwa's performance was particularly noteworthy, earning him the accolade of Player of the Match for his decisive goal and overall contribution to the team's success.