Share

Mweene: I knew which way Mahrez was going

Cape Town - Zambia and Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene says his homework paid off when he saved Algeria forward Riyad Mahrez's penalty kick on Tuesday night.

Mweene stopped Mahrez from converting a 15th minute penalty in their World Cup qualifying game in Algeria, after a foul by Fackson Kapumbu.

Chipolopolo went on the claim a 1-0 victory thanks to Patson Daka's goal 25 minutes from time, that win following their 3-1 triumph over the Fennecs in Lusaka on the weekend.

The six points gained means Zambia trail Group B leaders Nigeria by three points, with two matches left to play.

Mweene, who excelled for Zambia in their AFCON-winning campaigns of 2012, has stopped penalties from some of Africa's biggest stars, including Asamoah Gyan, Didier Drogba, Gervinho and Kolo Toure.

And the 32-year-old Sundowns shot-stopper says the save on Mahrez's spot kick was no fluke.

"As a goalkeeper when you are going to play with a player like that you want to  see their weaknesses as well," he told the Zambian Football website.

"I guessed right, I knew he was going that side that's why I went full out in that direction."

Zambia face Nigeria away on October 7 and end their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign with a home match against Cameroon on November 6.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2244 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE