Zambia U-17 national team coach Ian Bakala has named his final squad for the 2023 Algeria U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The tournament which will also serve as the qualifier for the 2023 U-17 Peru FIFA World Cup is set to be held from 29 April – 19 May 2023.
The junior Chipolopolo are in Group B alongside South Africa, Nigeria, and Morocco and will start their campaign on 30th April 2023 against the Golden Eaglets.
The boys return to the tournament after a seven-year absence, having last participated in 2015 with Leicester City striker Patson Daka as the team’s captain.
Bakala’s 26-member squad is dominated by youngsters from Kafue Celtic and Athletico while Lineker Mbesuma leads the attack.
FINAL SQUAD
(GOALKEEPERS)
Shadreck Kalyati (Chainda Bombers), Anthony Matafwali (Shamuel Academy), Hendrix Kanyungulu (Kafue Celtic)
(DEFENDERS)
Aaron Simpasa (Kafue Celtic), Chimuka Lweendo (Atletico), David Hamansenya (Shamuel), Milimo Nalumango (DFIB Germany), Josiah Kabandula (Young Napsa Stars). Jonathan Kaliminia (Young Kafue Celtic), Sekanji Siame (Konkola Blades), Charles Kampamba (Sate Sate Academy)
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(MIDFIELDERS)
Samson Malaya, Joseph Liteta (both Atletico), Bunonge Bunonge (Nangweshi Pirates), Obvious Mwaliteta Junior (Kabs Academy). Aaron Mbemba Phiri (Kafue Celtic), Stanley Nyamikwe (Pataaki), James Sibeene (Football Chance)
(STRIKERS)
Emmanuel Mwanza (Kafue Celtic), Luketekelo Kapowa (Mokved), Marcel Zimba (Atletico), Lineker Mbesuma (Jomo Cosmos-RSA). Andrew Phiri (Game On FC), Josim Sikazwe (Kanyama Lions).