Namibia qualify to AFCON despite defeat to Zambia

Zambia demolished Namibia at Heroes Stadium in Lusaka in the final match of the Group K of Egypt 2019 African Cup of Nations.

An Augustine Mulenga brace and a goal each from Donashamo Malama and Lazarous Kambole earned Zambia a 4-1 victory.

Despite suffering a defeat Namibia qualified at the expense of the Mozambique who failed to beat Guinea Bissau.

In Lusaka, with Chipolopolo coach Sven Vandenbroeck on forced leave, Aggrey Chiyangi took charge of the 2012 African Champions.

The Green Eagles coach named four attacking players and went for a double pivot midfield pairing of Donashamo and Salulani Phiri.

Clatous Chama and Mulenga started on the flanks with Mwape Musonda and Justine Shonga upfront.

Namibia were the first one to threaten as the Kabaso Chongo marshalled defence looked shake.

In 12th minute, against play Mulenga picked up the ball from 25 yards and unleashed a scorcher that left the Namibian goalkeeper helpless as the Orlando Pirates winger gave Zambia a lead.

After the break, Namibia pushed for an equaliser but the home side held their own.

Returning to the side after a 12 months, Donashamo pounced on a lose ball in a goal mouth scramble to make it 2-0 in the 54th minute.

Namibia then had a genuine goal disallowed for offside as the game showed the ugly scenes of poor officiating which is hindering the development of football on the continent.

Mulenga added his second and Zambia’s third after he headed home before substitute Lazarous Kambole wrapped it home with cool finish.

Guinea Bissau qualified as Group K winners on 9 points while Namibia finished second thanks to a better head to head than Mozambique.

Zambia are rocked bottom with 7 points