The junior Chipolopolo boys will open their Group A campaign against Mauritius at Somhlolo stadium today at 12:00hrs Zambian time with Coach Chisi Mbewe already declaring the team ready for the regional tournament which is being used as a qualifier for next year’s under-20 Africa Cup of Nation.
Mbewe has expressed confidence that the team is in good shape and ready for todays game.
So far so good, the preparation is going on so well, the players are in good shape and high spirit and they are looking forward to the opening game against Mauritius. What is important is the boys understand the task at hand,
He said.
Mbewe also emphasized that it will be important for the team to collect maximum points in their first game as this will set set the tone for the coming games.
The team looks set, I think we are ready, and what is important is that we need to collect maximum points in our first game because the first game is always important, as it usually sets the tone,
he added.
Mbewe will be banking on highly rated Red Arrows teenager, Joseph Sabobo Banda to offer the much-needed firepower upfront, as well as other under-17 graduates who played a key role in Zambia’s qualification to the under-17 Africa cup of nations that was eventually cancelled due to COVID-19 in 2021.
Athletic Lusaka’s duo of Charles Majapa Mumba and Kingsley Mutandwa will be expected to play a key role, not forgetting Zesco United winger Chipyoka Songa, as well as Nkana’s recent left-back revelation Amon Chulu.
Green Eagles duo of Derrick Bulaya and Emmanuel Mukosha will also expected to provide an alternative role in the team, including MUZA F.C striker Rickson Ng’ambi among other of young players from the super league.
The junior Chipolopolo boys are housed in Group A alongside Mauritius, host Eswatini and Botswana and will need to reach the final of the regional competition to secure a slot at the junior AFCON as only the top two will qualify from the COSAFA region.
