Zambia U17 plots to silence Morocco

Zambia U17 coach, Ian Bakala, has not yet given up hope as the junior Chipolopolo boys come face to face with Morocco tonight.

The junior Chipolopolo boys in their first group match against the eaglets of Nigeria narrowly lost 1-0 before a 3-2 defeat to regional rival, South Africa.

A victory over Afcon U17 quarterfinalist, Morocco, will realistically give the U17 Cosafa champions, a chance to reach the quarterfinal stage, as one of the best two third placed teams across the three groups.

Kickoff is 21:00 hours today, Saturday at the 19 May 1956 Stadium in Algeria. Morocco beat South Africa 2-0 and the North African side defeated Nigeria 1-0.

Speaking during the pre-match conference, Zambia U17 coach, Ian Bakala is hopeful the team can upset Morocco and qualify to the next round.

“The team needs to focus on our game and get a result. We are going to seek just one thing and that is a win. We have put behind the results of the first two matches against Nigeria and South Africa,” said the coach.

The former Zambia international midfielder added that the team needs to believe in themselves to get a positive result.

“I am confident in my players, and I know that in football, everything is possible. We will put everything into that game, and we are ready to battle for that win. We need to maintain our focus and confidence. The team must give it one more push for a place in the last eight,” concluded Bakala.

Julius Malulu May 6, 2023

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Julius Malulu is a Bolanews sports journalist and football analyst from Zambia. He previously worked for United Voice and Radio Christian Voice as a sports reporter. He specializes in writing exclusive pieces and conducting interviews. He has appeared as an analyst on Znbc TV's Talking Football show, the radio Christian Voice Back Page, Camnet TV, and the Everything Bola Podcast.