By Bola Yapa Zed | 3rd November 2025 | Doha, Qatar
The Zambia Under-17 Men’s National Team will begin their historic journey at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar on Tuesday when they face Indonesia in their opening Group H fixture. Led by head coach Dennis Makinka, the young Chipolopolo are eager to make a strong statement in their maiden appearance on the global stage.
Zambia heads into the tournament full of confidence after securing back-to-back victories in their preparatory matches held in Dubai. The Junior Chipolopolo overcame Mexico (3–1) and New Caledonia (3–0), displaying attacking flair and solid teamwork that Makinka believes has given his boys momentum heading into the opener.
“We are adapting very well, it’s good and a great feeling,” said Makinka. “We’re just concentrating and anxious to play our first game.” The coach emphasized that the team’s focus is on maintaining discipline and composure, adding that they’re ready to showcase the talent and determination that has seen Zambia rise in youth football in recent years.
Zambia’s group stage fixtures will see them face Indonesia today, Honduras on Friday, and Brazil next Monday. Makinka acknowledged the challenge of competing in their first-ever World Cup but remains optimistic about the team’s chances. “We are coming into this World Cup as first-timers, and Indonesia has already participated in the tournament before. It’s quite a big challenge—they’ve tested the waters, and this will be our first time. But we have a plan,” he noted.
Indonesia comes into the tie after a shaky build-up, losing to Paraguay and drawing 0-0 with Ivory Coast in their final warm-up matches. However, Makinka has warned against underestimating the hosts. “You know, friendlies, you never know what they were looking for. Maybe they were not looking for results. It’s something else that they look for,” he said.
With the likes of Robert Banda, Jonathan Kalimina, Abel Nyirongo, and James Nene Sibeene expected to lead Zambia’s charge, the Junior Chipolopolo will look to make a memorable debut and put African football on the global radar once again.
As Zambia’s young guns prepare to face Indonesia in their FIFA U-17 World Cup debut, the nation’s hopes are high. The team’s preparation and growing confidence under coach Makinka set the tone for a potentially historic campaign. A strong start could ignite belief not only within the squad but across Zambia a country ready to witness another golden chapter in its football story.
