In a thrilling league encounter at the Mindolo Police Ground on 23 November 2024, Sate Sate Youth Academy emerged victorious with a 2-1 win against Ajax Chimz Academy. The match kicked off at 10:10am, showcasing a fierce battle between the two youth sides.
Sate Sate Youth Academy lined up in a traditional 4-4-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions into attack. Benard Mwaba took his place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Kalumba Eric on the right, Godwin Kapya and Alex Musonda in central defence, and Kane Siuluta on the left. The midfield was anchored by Tinashe Kandeke and Sydney Kalisha in central roles, with Michael Chanda and Mutale Kasuku providing width on the right and left flanks, respectively. Up front, Chama Banda and Stephen Phiri formed a dynamic partnership, tasked with converting chances into goals.
The substitutes for Sate Sate included Jayden Chansa and Clement Besa, who would later play pivotal roles in the match.
The opening goal came in the 13th minute, as Chama Banda found the back of the net with a stunning strike from outside the box. The goal was set up by a clever flick from Stephen Phiri, showcasing the attacking prowess of the Sate Sate forwards. This early lead injected confidence into the Sate Sate players, who began to dictate the pace of the game.
However, Ajax Chimz Academy responded with determination, and in the 38th minute, they equalised with a goal from outside the box, scored with a powerful right-footed shot. This setback momentarily rattled Sate Sate, but they maintained their composure heading into half-time, with the score level at 1-1.
As the second half unfolded, Sate Sate continued to press forward, looking for opportunities to regain the lead. Their persistence paid off in the 76th minute when Chama Banda struck again, this time with a well-placed header from close range, following a precise cross from Michael Chanda. This goal not only restored Sate Sate's advantage but also highlighted Banda's aerial threat and clinical finishing.
In the 79th minute, Sate Sate made their first substitution, bringing on Jayden Chansa for Mutale Kasuku in a tactical move to bolster their midfield presence. Shortly after, in the 84th minute, Clement Besa replaced Chama Banda, who had been instrumental in the attack, ensuring fresh legs were on the pitch to see out the match.
Despite Ajax Chimz Academy's attempts to find an equaliser in the closing stages, Sate Sate's defence, marshalled by the impressive Benard Mwaba in goal, held firm. Mwaba's performance was crucial, as he made several key saves to deny the opposition any further goals.
As the final whistle blew, Sate Sate Youth Academy celebrated a hard-fought 2-1 victory, a testament to their resilience and tactical discipline. The win not only boosts their league standing but also serves as a significant confidence booster for the young players as they continue their development in competitive football.
