NAPSA Stars Football Club kicked off their 2023/24 season on a disappointing note, narrowly losing 1-0 to ZESCO United in a match held at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka.
Lola Kansa Moise’s goal in the dying seconds of the first half proved decisive, allowing the visitors to secure all three points in this match.
Coach Perry Mutapa’s team had a shaky start, gradually finding their rhythm as the match progressed.
However, it wasn’t enough to overcome a George Lwandamina-drilled side that travelled all the way from Ndola for this match.
ZESCO United made their presence known early, with Mubanga Kampamba threatening in the 10th minute. However, goalkeeper Rodwell Mukwanya collected the shot with assurance.
In the 20th minute, NAPSA Stars created a promising opportunity through an excellent exchange of passes, but the Pensioners squandered the chance with referee Hilary Hambaba making an offside call.
The 35th minute saw another opening for NAPSA, as Fredrick Mwimanzi’s shot found its way into Toaster’s waiting hands.
Approaching halftime, ZESCO United had an opportunity to take the lead in the 40th minute. Yet, Mukwanya displayed exceptional skills, denying them a breakthrough.
ZESCO’s goal finally materialized during added time, as Lola capitalized on NAPSA’s midfield mistake.
The second half continued to provide chances. Mubanga Kampamba unleashed another impressive shot, but Mukwanya parried it away skillfully.
In the 83rd minute, substitute Zikiru Adams had a scoring chance, but Nsabata denied him the opportunity.
Coach Perry introduced two new players, Zachariah Chilongoshi and Nazim Amokachi, during the start of the second half and in the 88th minute, respectively.
Reflecting on the outcome, Coach Perry mentioned that there were positive takeaways from today’s game that he intends to carry into the next fixture.
National Pensions Scheme Authority (NAPSA) Director General Muyangwa Muyangwa and Stanbic Bank Zambia Chief Executive Officer Mwindwa Siakalima were present at Woodlands Stadium to witness this match.
In the second-week fixture of the MTN Super League, the Pensioners will face off against Green Buffaloes FC at Edwin Imboela Stadium.
NAPSA STARS Starting 11
Rodwell Mukwanya, Gift Zulu, David Odhiambo (Zachariah Chilongoshi 45’), Luka Banda, Fredrick Mwimanzi, Leonard Mulenga (Zikiru Adams 75’), Daniel Adoko (Nazim Amokachi 88’), Chaniza Zulu 75’, Simon Nkhata, Musonda Kapembwa, Pinoki Vuvu (Dickson Chapa 45’).