Former U20 head coach Charles Bwale has given his analysis of Zambia’s opponents at the upcoming Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.
The Junior Chipolopolo Boys are drawn in Group A alongside host Egypt, South Africa, Tanzania and Sierra Leone.
Zambia, the 2017 AfCON winners will open their campaign against Sierra Leone under the tutelage of Boyd Mulwanda.
The tournament that runs from April 27 to May 18 serves as a qualifier for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup, with the four semifinals booking the available slots.
In an interview, Bwale described the group as easy but tricky.
Bwale notes that to overcome the different opponents, Zambia needs to exhibit compactness.
He has urged the technical bench to ensure there is agility and physical endurance in the team, especially against a little-known Sierra Leone.
“I think this group is easy but difficult,” Bwale said.
He added, “I will start with Egypt. Zambia ‘s U-20 have started with no fear or jitteriness. They have to be strong in all departments and score first.”
He noted that the match against South Africa will be a close encounter.
“South Africa, we know each other. In this game, it’s 50-50 the state of affairs; it can go either way. While for Tanzania it’s a very tricky encounter, so our team has to step up in terms of form,” he advised.
Adding that, “Sierra Leone I don’t know them, but against this side Zambia U-20 has to be strong, agile and physical to counter them. I believe this encounter they will come physically prepared to face us, but we have to be agile.”
