In a gripping league away match on 2nd March 2025, Sate Sate Youth Academy edged past Vichrich Academy with a final score of 3-2. The match, held at Vichrich's home ground, showcased a blend of skill, determination, and a touch of drama as both teams fought fiercely for supremacy.
Sate Sate Youth Academy lined up in a dynamic 4-3-3 formation, designed to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Chrispin Mpande took his place between the sticks as the goalkeeper, while Oswald Chalwe and James Mwansa occupied the right and left defensive flanks, respectively. Central defenders Godwin Kapya and Abel Nyondo provided a robust backbone to the defence. In midfield, Michael Chanda and Sydney Kalisha operated on the right and left flanks, with Gift Kalibuku anchoring the central midfield. Up front, the attacking trio consisted of right forward Clement Besa, striker Stephen Phiri, and left forward Tsiani Luhanga, each tasked with stretching the opposition and converting chances into goals.
The substitutes for Sate Sate Youth Academy included Mutale Kasuku, Bright Kapapa, and Mwangani Norbert, who would later play pivotal roles in the match.
The contest began with an early setback for Sate Sate Youth Academy as Vichrich Academy took the lead in the 7th minute. A well-placed header from close range caught the Sate Sate defence off guard, sending the home fans into raptures. However, the visitors responded with resilience, and in the 23rd minute, Stephen Phiri levelled the score with a stunning direct free-kick from outside the box, curling the ball past the wall and into the net.
The momentum shifted further in Sate Sate's favour in the 33rd minute when an unfortunate own goal from a Vichrich player, following a free-kick delivered by Tsiani Luhanga, put the visitors ahead 2-1. The first half concluded with Sate Sate leading, but the match was far from over.
As the second half commenced, Sate Sate continued to press their advantage, and in the 54th minute, James Mwansa struck a long-range effort with his left foot, extending the lead to 3-1. This prompted a tactical reshuffle, with Mutale Kasuku and Bright Kapapa coming on for Sydney Kalisha and Tsiani Luhanga, respectively, to bolster the midfield and maintain control of the game.
However, Vichrich Academy refused to capitulate and pulled a goal back in the 65th minute with a fluke strike from long range that caught everyone by surprise, narrowing the deficit to 3-2. The tension in the air was palpable as both teams sought to assert their dominance in the closing stages.
In the 66th minute, Sate Sate made their final substitution, bringing on Mwangani Norbert for Stephen Phiri, aiming to solidify their lead and see out the match. The final moments were fraught with intensity as Vichrich pushed for an equaliser, but Sate Sate's defence held firm, ensuring they left with all three points.
This thrilling encounter not only showcased the competitive spirit of both teams but also highlighted the resilience and tactical acumen of Sate Sate Youth Academy, who emerged victorious in a match that will be remembered for its drama and excitement.
