Zambia U-20 defender Happy Nsiku believes that facing South Africa at the upcoming 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will work to their advantage.
Zambia’s U-20 national team, the Young Chipolopolo, are placed in Group A alongside hosts Egypt, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, and South Africa.
The tournament kicks off on April 27, 2025, with the final scheduled for May 18, 2025.
In an interview, Nsiku expressed confidence in the team’s readiness ahead of the competition.
“We are pushing in preparation for the AFCON, which is in just a few days. The guys are putting in so much energy in training in readiness for the tournament; we are focused,” said Nsiku.
The Red Arrows defender described the group as manageable and highlighted the advantage of playing against familiar opposition in South Africa.
The group is just fair. Compared to the other groups, we are five countries in Group A, which is an advantage to us. South Africa – which played the final in the COSAFA last year – is an advantage to us because we know how they play. It’s like a bonus to us.
Nsiku further emphasized the importance of the tournament, noting its potential to open international opportunities for players.
“It’s a life-changing tournament for us. We are fully focused on qualification for the World Cup, and for sure, we are going to qualify for it,” he stated.
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