Zambia striker Gamphani Lungu’s dream of a first trophy with Orlando Pirates turned into a nightmare after a costly penalty miss in Saturday’s MTN8 final defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns. The Chipolopolo forward fluffed his spot-kick at a packed Moses Mabhida Stadium as the Buccaneers…

Zambia striker Gamphani Lungu’s dream of a first trophy with Orlando Pirates turned into a nightmare after a costly penalty miss in Saturday’s MTN8 final defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Chipolopolo forward fluffed his spot-kick at a packed Moses Mabhida Stadium as the Buccaneers crashed 2-0, surrendering the trophy they had dominated for four straight years.

Lungu, who carried Zambian hopes of silverware in South Africa, was left to rue the miss that proved pivotal as Sundowns punished Pirates to end their reign.

Hours after the painful loss, the Zambian international took to Instagram to own the moment and thank fans who rallied behind him.

“Yesterday wasn’t the outcome we worked for. We did our best as a team, but we know there’s more we could have done,” Lungu wrote.

“Football comes with wins and losses, and this is one of those moments to reflect, learn and come back stronger.”

“To everyone who has reached out with messages of encouragement and support, thank you. Every message is appreciated, and none of the love goes unnoticed.”

The defeat leaves coach Abdeslam Ouaddou under pressure to deliver a quick response, with Pirates hosting TS Galaxy on Tuesday in the Betway Premiership desperate to get their season back on track.

For Lungu, the focus now shifts from heartbreak to redemption.