2025 U17 World Cup: Zambia cruise past Honduras to seal historic qualification

Zambia booked their place in the Round of 32 of the U17 World Cup with an emphatic 5-2 victory over Honduras in Group H, showcasing an exceptional attacking display that underlined their growing confidence on the global stage.

From the opening whistle, the Chipolopolos asserted their dominance through fluid movement, pressing, and clinical finishing.

It took just five minutes for Kelvin Mulenga Chipelu to break the deadlock, calmly slotting home after a swift attacking move.

Felix Phiri doubled Zambia’s advantage in the 14th minute with a composed strike that left the Honduran defence reeling.

Zambia continued to dictate the tempo, and their third goal arrived in the 40th minute when James Nene Sibeene finished off another flowing sequence of play to make it 3-0.

Honduras managed to respond before the interval, as Yeison Arriola pulled one back in the 44th minute to give his side a glimmer of hope.

The first half ended 3-1 in favour of Zambia, who controlled proceedings with assurance and precision in midfield.

The second half saw Honduras attempt a resurgence, pushing forward with greater intensity.

Their efforts were rewarded in the 52nd minute when David Flores reduced the deficit further.

However, Zambia quickly restored their rhythm, refusing to allow the momentum to shift.

Billy Daka extended Zambia’s lead in the 72nd minute, capping off a powerful counter-attack that left Honduras exposed at the back.

The Southern Africans continued to press forward with confidence, and in the closing minutes, Abel Salim Nyirongo added a fifth goal in the 88th minute to seal a memorable triumph.

Zambia’s defence remained disciplined throughout, absorbing Honduras’s late pressure and protecting their commanding lead.

The result not only confirmed Zambia’s qualification for the knockout stages but also marked a milestone achievement — their first time advancing to the Round of 32 in the competition’s history.

The Chipolopolos’ blend of creativity, pace, and determination proved decisive, making their victory one of the standout performances of the tournament so far.

Their qualification is being hailed as a significant moment for Zambian youth football, reflecting the nation’s growing presence on the international stage.