Zambia’s Under-20 national team thrashed South Sudan 3-0 in their third friendly match as the team ramps up preparations for the 2023 Egypt U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Both teams were using this game to warm up for the competition, which begins this weekend.
Zambia had played three international friendlies so far, losing 4-2 to Nigeria and 1-0 to Senegal before last night’s match.
They will conclude their preparations with another friendly against Uganda on Thursday before the tournament kicks off on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Chisi Mbewe, the team’s head coach, praised his players for displaying positive character in last night’s game.
“Coming into this game compared to the other games, the boys brought a lot of character, a lot of fighting spirit, and a lot of focus, and this is the game the boys were looking forward to,” said Mbewe.
Mbewe believes the boys’ morale will improve as a result of the victory over Sunday.
“The boys really wanted this [win] so much, and it brings confidence in the players going into the tournament.” “So far, so good.” “I am very happy, but we need to improve in certain areas going forward so that we are ready for the tournament.”
“WE ARE READY FOR THE AFCON”
Mbewe revealed that the last three friendlies had given him a clear picture of what to expect when the tournament kicks off.
“Now we are set, we are ready for the AFCON, and in the remaining few days, we just need to polish up.
“We have a view of what we expect, and the teams we have played in the three friendly games have given us a true picture of what we should expect in the tournament,” concluded Mbewe.
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The U-20 AFCON starts on February 19, 2023. Zambia is in Group C alongside Tunisia, Benin, and Gambia.
After winning the tournament in 2017 on home soil, the young Chipolopolo failed to qualify on two occasions. They return with hopes of seeking redemption.
The U-20 AFCON will also serve as the qualifier for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup with the top four securing automatic qualification.
The youth World Cup will be held in Indonesia from 20 May – 11 June 2023 and will feature 24 teams.
