Paris 2024: Zambia pays perfect homage to Betani with narrow first leg win against Ghana

Million dollar forward Rachel Kundananji scored the lone goal as Zambia defeated Ghana in a week where tributes have continued for Norini Betani, 24, who agonizingly passed on while in camp. It was the perfect tribute the copper queens family could ask for, in the first leg, round 3 of the 2024 Paris Olympic qualifiers.

The most expensive female football player in the world, Rachel Kundananji scored the all important goal as Zambia edged the Black Queens 1-0 away in Accra.

The match saw the return of Kabange Mupopo after an eight year absence.

It was however Kundananji who took the limelight as she scored the only goal of the match in the 18th minute with a cheeky finish after being set on her way by Barbra Banda.

Zambia had a few more chances in the first half but they failed to utilise them, Rachel Nachula missing with only the keeper to beat.

In the second half it was Ghana who came back with a lot more purpose and Zambia had to rely on Catherine Musonda’s quick reflexes to keep the match in their favour.

The Copper Queens held on to win the match 1-0.

The second leg is set for Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Wednesday, kick off at 18h00.

The winner over two legs will face either Tunisia or Morocco in the final round. Morocco beat Tunisia 2-1 in the first leg.

Elsewhere, South Africa thrashed Tanzania, 3-0 while Cameroon and Nigeria played to a goalless draw.