Creck Sporting Reserves staged a spirited comeback to book their place in the final of the NBM U-23 Championship after defeating Lobi Young Soccer 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
The home side took the lead in the 17th minute of the first half, leaving Creck trailing 1-0 at the break.
However, Creck Reserve responded strongly after halftime. Rodrick Sambani Jnr leveled the score in the 52nd minute with a powerful low strike from outside the 18-yard box, making it 1-1. Despite creating several chances thereafter, neither side could find the winner, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
Creck held their nerve from the spot as Chrispin Kalulu, Ratif Chilenje, goalkeeper Ramadan Alli, and Innocent Makhawe all converted their penalties calmly.
Goalkeeper Ramadan Alli then emerged as the hero, saving two spot kicks from Lobi Young Soccer to seal a 4-2 shootout victory and guarantee Creck’s place in the final.
This victory marks a historic milestone for Creck Sporting Reserves, as they reach their first-ever final and the inaugural NBM U-23 Championship final.
Creck began their campaign in the Round of 16, eliminating Chimbiya Stars, before defeating Dedza Soccer Saints in the quarterfinals and edging past Lobi Young Soccer in the semifinals.
Details of theil opponent, as well as the date and venue of the final, will be announced in due course.
