From MOSES CHIMFWEMBE –

In Rustenburg, South Africa
AFTER suffering shock eliminations at the ongoing 2015 COSAFA Senior Challenge, the heavyweights Zambia and Ghana today renew their bitter rivalry in the Plate semi-final at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium.
It is surprising that just three years ago, these two powerhouses of African football were battling it out for a spot at the Brazil 2014 World Cup finals but will now have to face off in an insignificant losers’ category.
The Chipolopolo were booted out of the competition by Namibia after losing 5-4 on penalties, while the Black Stars suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of islanders, Madagascar.
Zambia and Ghana were tipped as serious contenders for the COSAFA title prior to the tournament but will now be seeking solace and pride when they clash in a 17:00 hours kickoff.
This particular tie has never produced a stalemate result since 1964 and the Black Stars have had an advantage over Zambia winning seven times in their 11 meetings, while the Chipolopolo have picked up four victories.
The recent meetings saw Zambia win 1-0 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium with Ghana winning the return leg 2-1 in Kumasi to clinch the World Cup final qualifying slot and subsequent spot at the finals.
Chipolopolo coach Honour Janza said yesterday that this tie would not be easy for both teams because both teams would be looking for a victory.
“Looking at the trends here, both teams have been denied chances to fight for the cup… So, we are both wounded and I think we will be looking for consolation and the only way out is to win the next game,” Janza said.
He said winning the plate would motivate the team to go into the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers on a high.
Janza will, however, be without midfielder Justin Zulu, who missed yesterday’s training session after sustaining an ankle injury during the Namibia game, while striker Jimmy Ndhlovu is a doubt after sustaining a similar injury as well.
Midfielder Nathan Sinkala, who missed Sunday’s match, could join the party to partner Khondwani Mtonga in the midfield.
Ghana tactician, Maxwell Konadu said he was targeting a win against the Chipolopolo.
“We have no choice but to win against Zambia but it will be a more difficult match than the Madagascar knowing the pedigree of the two teams in African football,” Konadu said.