Kenyan international Jesse Were scored within a minute and 45 seconds to open the scoreline for team ya ziko, before he returned in the 55th-minute to snatch a brace that was punctuated by a 26th minute goal by Lazarous Kambole at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

The 3-0 bashing of the visiting Nigeriens guided ZESCO United to the second stage of the Champions League where they will now face TP Mazembe of Congo DR.

Although ZESCO won the game, it was Sonidep of Niger that had better possession in the first half while the ZESCO defence had numerous defensive errors that could have spoiled their broth. As the two sides went on break, ZESCO had a 2-0 advantage.

In the second half, Jesse Were managed another quick goal in the 55th minute, stealing a brace from Kambole who failed to utilise his chance in the 67th minute that would have stretched the aggregate to 6-1 at full time, but 51 it was.

ZESCO coach George Lwandamina shared his views on the clash during the post match interview, after his outfit recorded a 100 per cent record, having defeated the West Africans 2-1 at their home soil.

“I am still not fully confident with the way my boys are playing. There is clearly a weakness at the back and we have to work very hard as we train for the encounter against TP Mazembe. Otherwise a home and away win is really good,” said Lwandamina.