Zesco seal first leg win against Le Messager

Jackson Mwanza @ SS com

Zesco United fought hard to defeat Le Messager Ngozi of Burundi 2-0 in the first round, first leg of the 2017 Caf Confederations Cup played at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Friday, March 10.

Playing at home for the first time under coach Zlatco Krmpotic, Zesco United opened the scoring in the 31st minute through Jackson Mwanza.

Kondwani Mtonga added the second goal from a free header following a corner delivered by Fackson Kapumbu in the 75th minute.

Zesco United coach Zlatco Krmpotic said he was happy to start with a win.

“This game was very tough but I am satisfied with the result because we did not concede any goal. That is what was important in this match,” said Krmpotic.

“Zesco were favourites before the match and even now. But anything is possible; when Barcelona lost 4-0 to Paris Saint Germain every one thought they were out but we all know what happened in the second leg. As Zesco United we want to go to Burundi and win there too.”

And Le Messager Ngozi coach Momlic Medic refused to throw in the towel, saying it was possible for his team to overturn the 2-0 deficit in the second leg

“We were very well organized in defence unfortunately our transition into attack was poor today. We will try to work on that as we prepare for the return leg. We hope that when Zesco come to Burundi we will give them a hard time for the full 90 minutes because we will try to score and not defend,” said Medic.

Le Messager Ngozi reached the first round after they overturned a 2-1 first leg defeat by winning the second leg 3-0 to win the preliminary round tie 4-2 against Zanzibari side KVZ SC.

They will host Zesco United at the Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium in Bujumbura on Saturday, March 18.

FAZ