The Zambia U17 Men’s National Team has officially landed in Casablanca for the upcoming TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 tournament. The team, led by Coach Ian Bakala, arrived at 11:50am on an Emirates Airlines flight and will now head to Mohammedia to prepare for their first match against Tanzania next week.
As the current COSAFA champions, Zambia is determined to make a mark in this year’s tournament. They have been placed in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Tanzania, and Uganda. The top 10 teams from the AFCON will secure a spot in the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar later this year, adding even more significance to Zambia’s performance.
The final squad for the tournament has been announced, featuring a mix of talented players from various clubs. In the goalkeeping department, William Zulu from Blaze Sporting Academy, Rogers Simumba from Shamuel Soccer Academy, and Christo Chitambala from Eromac FC will be guarding the net. The defense will be led by players like George Mwale, Chama Chansa from Young Crocs, and Andrew Mwape from Young ZANACO, among others.
In the midfield, players like Gabriel Phiri from NAPSA Stars, Bongani Ndhlovu from Young Zanaco, and Steven Lungu from Morkved Sports Club will be crucial in controlling the game. The striking force will be led by Abel Salim Nyirongo and Robert Banda from Atletico Lusaka, Nthasilwe Malupande from Young Crocs, and Daniel Silubonde from Morkved Sports Club.
With a strong squad and high ambitions, Zambia is ready to showcase their talent on the continental stage. Fans are eagerly awaiting the team’s performance in the upcoming tournament, hoping for a successful campaign that will lead them to the FIFA U17 World Cup later this year.