Spain-based midfielder Aaron Mbemba Phiri has urged under-17 players to harness the opportunity that comes with playing in major tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup.

Mbemba, a former under-17 captain who is on the books of Spanish side Cádiz, has hailed the Ian Bakala-drilled team for qualifying for the World Cup, which will be held in Qatar in November.

Zambia sealed their World Cup place after reaching the quarter-finals of the Africa Under-17 Cup of Nations by beating Uganda 2–1 in their final Group A match.

In an exclusive interview, Mbemba told Bolanews that playing at such tournaments is a big plus for Zambian players.

“A lot of great opportunities – we all know how big the Africa Cup is at any age group, with a lot of people and different people watching. Not only for them but opportunities for the small boys back home with dreams of playing professional football,” Mbemba said.

‘I have been talking to them’- Phiri

He said he has been in conversation with a number of players in the current under – 17 squad and has urged them to keep working hard.

“I have been talking to the boys from time to time, encouraging them to just work hard, do their best and want it more than anyone else there and, most importantly, enjoy every moment,” he said.

He said now that the team has secured World Cup qualification, they should go for the kill and lift the AFCON title

“My message to the boys is huge congratulations to the whole team for a job well done, for not only qualifying for the World Cup but for making history as well. We are super proud of them and now focus has to switch. One goal achieved and there’s one left they have to play and fight for that title,” he said.

Zambia will play Burkina Faso in the quarter-finals for a place in the semi–final.

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