Justin Shonga rescues late point for Zambia in Namibia

Justin Shonga of Zambia
Justin Shonga of Zambia
Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Justin Shonga rescued a point late on for Zambia as he struck a 90th-minute equaliser to deny Namibia an unexpected home win in Saturday's Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Benson Shilongo gave the hosts the lead in the 79th minute, but Shongo saved Sven Vandenbroeck from falling to defeat in his first game as Chipolopolo head coach with a late free kick.

The visitors had various chances to take the lead, but Augustine Mulenga, Nathan Sinkala and Patson Daka all missed fine opportunities, while the talented Enoch Mwepu was only given a late cameo by the Belgian coach.

The draw at the Sam Nujoma Stadium leaves Zambia and Namibia third and fourth respectively in Group K, with the duo both on one point.

Guinea-Bissau and Mozambique, who played out a 2-2 draw on Saturday, currently occupy the qualification spots on four points each.

Zambia have qualified for 16 AFCON tournaments, memorably conquering the continent in 2012.