Annemarie Sarturini’s brace was enough for Italy to see off a gallant display by the Zambia U17 national team as the girls from Lusaka went down 2 – 0 in their debut World Cup match.
The young skilful and talented Zambians put up a great fight in the first half but for the goal conceded in the 34th minute after speedy Sarturini run on to a through ball to put the ball past an on coming Nali Phiri in the Zambian goal who was otherwise a marvel to watch.
Despite the many attacks through the middle Zambia failed to break down a strong Italian defence and the Italian keeper did not have much to do in the first half.
Italy stepped up their game in the second half and pinned the Zambians in their own half from the start and the pressure yielded as Sarturin made no mistake with only the keeper to beat after Mary Mulenga laid the ball in her path in an attempted clearance.
The goal seemed to further punch holes in Zambia’s play as they failed to build meaningful attacks going forward but will be consoled with the a man of the patch performance by defender Martha Tembo who coordianted well in defence with Mary Wilombe.
The Zambian lasses now face Venezuela in the second group game.
Ghana the other African representatives started off on a good note after they beat Korea DPR 2 – 0.
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