PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa – Zimbabwe clinched a spot in the COSAFA semi-finals with a game to spare after beating defending champions Zambia 2-0 in a Group B match played at Nelson Mandela Bay, Port Elizabeth, South Africa on Sunday.
Two first half goals by Michael Tapera and Takunda Benhura was all that was needed by the six-time COSAFA champions to seal a familiar victory over their regional arch-rivals.
Tapera scored an early contender for goal of the tournament when he raced from just inside Zimbabwe’s half on the left wing to mount a solo run beating three Zambian defenders and then shooting from an acute angle to send the ball beyond Charles Kalumba, in goals for Chipolopolo.
It was the Manica Diamonds forward’s second goal of the tournament after his priceless effort sank Comoros in the opponents’ opening clash last week.
Zambia’s woes were made worse when defender Killian Kanguluma was red-carded after picking two unnecessary yellows in the 24th and 32nd minutes.
The Warriors sit on top of the Group B table on 6 points.
Comoros and Kenya are tied on 3 points.
Jairos Tapera’s men have the luxury of losing their last group fixture against Kenya after their two victories are enough to secure passage to the semis.
