The Zambia U16 Boys National Team kicked off their FIFA Talent Development Programme tournament in Ivory Coast with a win, following their 4-1 victory in a penalty shootout against neighboring Tanzania after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

Zambia came from behind twice, displaying resilience and determination. Coach Ian Bakala expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “The spirit of the team looked good.”

Speaking in a post-match interview after the victory, Bakala praised his team for their fighting spirit, saying, “Some of them, I think for the first time, they have done well. Coming from 1 down, we equalized; 2-1 down, we came back and won the penalties. Overall, I think the boys are doing well.”

Despite the win, Bakala acknowledged that his team needs to improve as they advance in the tournament, with a game against Morocco scheduled for Thursday, 5th September.

“Going forward, there were errors here and there, but we are able to control those mistakes,” he said.

Miscommunication is team’s weakness- Bakala

Bakala pointed out that “miscommunication behind and even possessional discipline” were the main mistakes that led to Tanzania’s goals.

“We conceded goals where we couldn’t have conceded,” Bakala noted.

Zambia will look to build on this victory going into their encounter with Morocco, with Bakala feeling that his team has learned from the Tanzania game.

“They are young; some of them, they were excited, but I think they are gaining something from it. I am happy with the results,” he commented.

Bakala called for “extra hard work” ahead of the Morocco game, aiming for improvement in their next two games against Morocco and Algeria.

“We just have to work extra. I think the boys are  gaining experience in each and every minute. They did well in the first game. The coming two games, I think there will be much improvement,” he concluded.

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