Diamond Zebras Edge Closer To The Semi-Finals

The Zebras kicked off their campaign on a high note as they beat the host, Mauritius 1-0 in a hard fought win, courtesy of a late penalty that was converted by Oageng Maphorisa while Seychelles came from a heavy 8-3 defeat at the hands of Namibia.

Coming into the Saturday game, coach Itumeleng ‘Tumie’ Duiker made a couple of changes in the team who played Mauritius. Attacking midfielder, Thabo Mangole started in place of Thabang Shendu while Arnold Obuseng replaced left full back, Gabriel Vanneel in the
starting line-up.  The local boys started the game on a high as they pressed the Islanders from the first minute.  Their efforts were rewarded just after 12 minutes, as the referee awarded a penalty after
Kaone Kolagano was brought down inside the box.  Maphorisa stepped up and sent the keeper, giving the Zebras the lead with his second of the
tournament.