A breath-taking revival by Zambia saw them qualify for the next round of the FIFA U-20 World Cup after coming from two down to beat Iran 4-2.
Zambia had shown defensive frailties early on and the theme continued as Mangani Banda’s miscued clearance fell straight to Reza Shekari made no mistake to put Iran in front.
A rash challenge on Omid Norafkan gifted Shekari another goal, this time from the penalty spot.
However, the tide began to turn six minutes later. A hoofed ball by Solomon Sakala found namesake Fashion who cut inside and volleyed low to half the deficit
Zambia then drew level with one of the goals of the tournament so far. A lovely flowing move down the right resulted in Emmanuel Banda’s flick being slotted home by Enock Mwepu.
With momentum flowing fiercely for those in green, Banda put them ahead following a goalmouth scramble before Patson Daka gave the win some gloss as he found the bottom corner with a neat finish.
Zambia U-20 are top of Group C with 6 points from two matches. Iran U-20 are second and still can qualify should they not lose to Portugal U-20 in the final group stage match three days from now.