Power Dynamos goalkeeper Willard Mwanza has said he is looking forward to a successful outing with the Chipolopolo boys as he prepares for his debut appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, which kicks off on Sunday in Morocco.
Mwanza is among the fresh call-ups named by Chipolopolo head coach Moses Sichone.
The former Konkola Blades shot-stopper has been a consistent top performer for the Zambian champions over the past two seasons, a run of form that earned him a national team call-up.
At AFCON, Mwanza will compete for the number one spot with his Power Dynamos teammate Lawrence Mulenga and Zanaco goalkeeper Francis Mwansa. The Power Dynamos custodian previously made his debut for the Chipolopolo during the CHAN tournament against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
With 16 clean sheets in 26 matches since the start of the 2024/25 season, Mwanza has been tipped by many fans to start ahead of Mulenga, who played against DR Congo on Tuesday and conceded two goals, the first of which slipped easily past his fingers.
Mwanza hopeful for successful tournament
Speaking to Bolanews in an exclusive interview, Mwanza said he is targeting a positive outing with the national team.
“So the preparation has been good so far here; since we came, we have all been pushing and getting ready for the tournament. Personally, I am ready, and once given an opportunity, I will make sure I will do my best,” he said.
“We are here as a team, and we need to embrace teamwork; that is what is going to help us go far in the competition. It will be my first time at the AFCON, and I am looking forward to having a good experience,” Mwanza added.
He continued: “Our fans at home should just continue giving us support; we will surely deliver. I never look down on myself; I always trust my capabilities, and with the support from our fans at home, we will have a good experience at the tournament.”
Zambia will open their AFCON campaign against Mali on December 22 at Stade Mohammed V, before facing Comoros at the same venue four days later.
The Chipolopolo boys will wrap up their Group A fixtures with a tough encounter against hosts Morocco at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on December 29.
