Defender David Hamansenya and midfielder Gift Siame say they feel privileged to have debuted for their senior national teams during the November international window.

During the break Zambia played friendly matches against South Africa and Angola, losing both matches 3-1 and 3-2.

The pair who play for the Spanish side CD Leganes were among the youngest players in the squad and are hoping to break into the final team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where Zambia will face Morocco, Mali, and Comoros in Group A next month.

Hamansenya described his debut as a dream come true and thanked the technical bench for the opportunity.

“I really appreciate the coach for giving me the opportunity to represent my country… It’s really special for me because it’s the first time representing my country with the senior national team. It’s a dream come true because that’s the moment I’ve been waiting for,” he said

“We just have to encourage one another and put in our level best… This is preparation for the AFCON. We are trying to build a team and giving us young players the opportunity to showcase our talent.”

Siame echoed the sentiment, describing the moment as a privilege and motivation to aim higher.

“I’m super excited and delighted… I think I’m just looking forward to more game time. We need to continue working extra hard and encourage one another to push even more,” he said.

He also praised the senior players and technical bench for creating an environment that boosts confidence.

“They are helping us a lot in terms of confidence and expressing ourselves… We are not taking this opportunity for granted as young players. We just need to take the opportunity as it comes and give our all.”

Both players vowed to keep working hard to earn places in the final squad and help Zambia chase continental glory.

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