MAKINKA PRAISES JUNIOR CHIPOLOPOLO’S COMEBACK WIN OVER INDONESIA

04.11.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️

Zambia U17 Coach Dennis Makinka

Zambia Under-17 head coach Dennis Makinka has commended his players for their fighting spirit following a 3-1 comeback victory against Indonesia in their opening match at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

Zambia appeared to have made a dream start when Mapalo Simute found the back of the net just 24 seconds into the match, connecting with a Kelvin Chipelu cross. However, their celebrations were short-lived as VAR ruled the goal offside.

Despite controlling possession and dictating the early tempo, Zambia fell behind in the 12th minute when Muhamed Gholy scored for Indonesia against the run of play.

The Junior Chipolopolo maintained their composure and continued pressing forward, eventually finding the equalizer in the 35th minute through Able Nyirongo, who calmly slotted home from another Chipelu assist. Two minutes later, Nyirongo struck again with a stunning long-range effort to give Zambia the lead.

The victory was sealed shortly after halftime when Lukonde Mwale added a third goal, ensuring a perfect start to Zambia’s campaign.

“We needed the three points in the first game. We’ve achieved what we planned for, and I am very happy,” said coach Makinka after the match.

The result sees Zambia sit second in Group H, tied on points with leaders Brazil.

Defender Andrew Mwape described the match as challenging but credited the team’s discipline and adherence to the coaches’ tactical plan.

“It wasn’t easy,” Mwape said. “We fought hard for the result. The game was intense, but we followed the coaches’ instructions and that helped us get a positive outcome.”

The Junior Chipolopolo now turn their attention to their next fixture against Honduras on 7th November 2025.

Group H standings

With this strong start, Zambia will be aiming to build momentum as they continue their journey at the global stage in Qatar.