When Zambia U17 national team takes on Nigeria today, it will begin its quest for the TotalEnergies U17 Africa cup of nations success.
The junior Chipolopolo boys made their tournament debut in 2015, although they were eliminated after the group stage.
Coach Ian Bakala expressed his belief that Zambia should make history on the continent despite being considered the underdog in a post-match interview with Cafonline.
“History must be changed. Now is the time to promote Zambia and enhance our reputation. We have a purpose for being here, and that purpose must be fulfilled. Although we might be the underdogs, Bakala vowed to prove that we can compete.
Bakala continued by saying that the boys are mentally prepared for the challenge and that the team is well-equipped.
“Senegal almost plays the same style of football as Nigeria, thus it was crucial for us to play that friendly. It greatly aided in our preparation and in putting the boys in the right frame of mind and pace. We observed the team’s spirit, which is very encouraging, he said.
A friendly match between Zambia and Senegal took place in Algeria and the young Chipolopolo boys won 4-2.
The young Chipolopolo will be vying for both a spot in the FIFA world cup and their first under-17 championship.
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The four teams who advance to the semifinals will secure slots at the U17 FIFA world cup to be hosted in Peru. The match between Zambia and Nigeria kicks off at 17:45 Zambian time at the Mohamed Hamloui stadium.
