THE triumphant Chipolopolo yesterday received a standing ovation at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola after sweeping through to the next stage of 2014 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers with an emphatic 2-0 victory over the Zebras of Botswana.
In the VIP stand, Sports Minister Chishimba Kambwili could not hide his happiness as he embraced Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Kalusha Bwalya soon after Swaziland referee Pritchard Simangnhleko blew the final whistle.
As Chipolopolo players led by team captain, Bronson Chama raced towards the crowd in a show of appreciation to the fans' unwavering support during the 90 minutes.
Government and FAZ officials in the VIP section took turns in toasting the victory by shaking hands.
Though the stadium was not full to capacity, the motivating fans clad in national colors were exceptional in providing the necessary support while the invigorating sounds of vuvuzelas (trumpets) provided an electric atmosphere in the 40, 000 capacity Levy stadium.
The fans would be credited for the splendid Chipolopolo second half showdown after they made several demands to have underperforming players substituted with striker Festus Mbewe being targeted fans signaled his substitution to Coach Herve Renard each time he lost the ball.
As the Chipolopolo scored soon after restart, the Mexican wave that had receded in the first half was now visible in the second stage as the home side upped their game with Mbewe becoming a fans' favorite after scoring the opener.
And speaking in an interview, Kambwili said the Chipolopolo deserved the victory as they put up a spirited fight.
Kambwili also expressed disappointment at the low turnout of fans at the match saying it was not inspiring.
He said football had become expensive and that fans should develop a culture of paying for football, adding that it was one way of generating income to maintain the stadia facilities.
"The boys played very well and they deserved this result, but I am not impressed with attendance of fans, this is not inspiring at all because we should be spending for these games," he said.
FAZ vice president Boniface Mwamelo said the Chipolopolo must remain focused ahead of their next encounter against the winner of today's game between Zimbabwe and Mauritius in Harare.
"This game was tough especially in the first half but the team showed character and produced results, we have to put this game behind and shift our attention on the next game," he said.
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