Chiwisa, a 20-year-old former Lusaka Youth Academy midfielder who plays for Italian Serie A’s Atalanta youth club, is part of the 30-man squad that entered camp in Lusaka today ahead of the AfCON finals in Ivory Coast.
In an exclusive interview with BolaNews, Chiwisa said that he is positive that he will do everything possible to make the final squad for the AfCON.
“I firmly believe that with my determination, dedication, and hard work, I will be part of the traveling team,’ he said. “However, if I’m not selected for the final Afcon squad, I would naturally feel disappointed….. But I would use it as motivation to continue improving and working hard.”
Chiwisa believes the Chipolopolo have a young squad keen to compete at the highest level.
“Being a team of young players, I sense a collective eagerness to fight hard and give our best. The novelty and the enthusiasm within the squad are additional factors that make me optimistic about our performance in the Afcon tournament. Therefore, I believe the team has the potential to go far and make a significant impact in the tournament. “
“I look forward to learning from experienced teammates”
Chiwisa is not taking his caller up to the senior team for granted. He said, “I view it as a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the team’s success and make a positive impact while representing my country.
“I look forward to learning from experienced teammates and embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with this incredible experience.”
Chiwisa was also part of the Zambia U23 national team that was eliminated from the qualifiers for the 2023 U23 AfCON by Egypt.
Grant will announce his 27-member squad that will travel to Saudi Arabia for the final camp next week.
Zambia is in Group F alongside the DR Congo, Morocco, and Tanzania.
The Chipolopolo boys will face DR Congo in their first match on January 17th, followed by Tanzania four days later.
They will conclude their group stage matches with a fixture against Morocco on January 24th.
