Zambia 3-1 Costa Rica: Zambia secure first Word Cup win
Zambia’s historic victory in the 2023 Women’s World Cup was a thrilling and well-deserved win against Costa Rica in their final Group C showdown.
Right from the start, Zambia showed their determination, with Lushomo Mweemba scoring a stunning goal within the first three minutes. The excitement continued as the team’s captain, Barbra Banda, confidently converted a penalty to give Zambia a comfortable lead in the first half.
Costa Rica, eager for their first World Cup win, fought back after the break, and Melissa Herrera managed to pull one back with a goal. However, Zambia wasn’t ready to let the victory slip away, and Racheal Kundananji’s late goal secured their triumph in injury time.
Although both teams had already been eliminated in the earlier matches, Zambia didn’t let that dampen their spirits. Their campaign might have had some setbacks, losing 5-0 to Japan and Spain, but they redeemed themselves with a superb performance in this final match.
The match in Hamilton was full of exciting moments. Mweemba’s goal, brilliantly volleyed from Avell Chitundu’s corner, marked an unforgettable milestone for Zambia as their first World Cup goal. Banda’s penalty added to the excitement, even becoming the 1000th goal in the history of the Women’s World Cup.
Costa Rica showed their fighting spirit too, hitting the crossbar just before halftime through Maria Paula Coto. They managed to close the gap with Herrera’s well-placed header, raising hopes of an equaliser.
VAR controversy
There was some controversy as well, with a VAR review denying Costa Rica a penalty kick due to an offside call. Herrera’s second goal was also ruled out for offside, adding to the drama of the game.
But in the end, it was Zambia who celebrated the victory as Kundananji sealed the deal with a brilliant set-up goal from Banda’s pass.
Zambia finished the group stage on a high note, securing the third spot ahead of Costa Rica, and they can return home with their heads held high, knowing they made history with this memorable win.
