In search of their second league victory this season, NAPSA Stars will travel to Mazabuka to face FC MUZA in an MTN Super League Week 9 clash at Nakambala Stadium on Saturday.
The Lusaka-based Pensioners, 12th on the table with eight points, have managed only one win this season, while FC MUZA are fifth with 14 points from the same number of matches.
NAPSA Stars head coach, Sipho Mumbi described the upcoming match as crucial for his team, admitting that playing away at MUZA will not be easy but expressing confidence in his players’ mindset and preparation.
“It’s a very crucial game going away to MUZA—not a very easy venue. But yeah, like always, it’s about preparation. I feel and think that the boys are psyched after the disappointing draw last week, so we are ready,” Mumbi said.
He added that his team must believe in themselves to turn their fortunes around.
“We are not in a good position in the league, and we are hoping that if we go out there, we need to have the mentality and the belief that we can pull off a win,” he said.
“It Is A Process” – Sipho Mumbi.
However, NAPSA will be without Kenneth Kasanda and Teddy Khumalo, who are sidelined through injury.
“I’ve got two injury concerns. Kenneth Kasanda and Teddy Khumalo won’t be available for this game, but we’ve got enough ammunition to fit in the positions,” Mumbi confirmed.
The coach also expressed joy over the call-up of young forward Gabriel Phiri to the Zambia Under-17 national team preparing for the upcoming FIFA U17 World Cup.
“I’m very happy for the young boy. Going forward, I feel and think we need to continue supporting these young boys because they are the future of Zambian football. I hope he does well not only for Zambia but for Napsa as well, because he’s representing us,” he said.
Mumbi further emphasized the need for patience when developing young players, noting that their integration into the senior setup must be gradual.
“We’ve been trying by all means to be careful with the young boys. It’s not going to just happen right there and then because you might end up destroying their careers. It’s a process. What is important is they are here and they are part of the senior setup.”
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