Aba Yellow Beware Minnaert Is Coming
Power Dynamos’ dream of marching into the CAF Champions League group stage faces a stern test in the form of Uganda’s Vipers SC, coached by none other than Belgian tactician Ivan Minnaert a name well-acquainted with Zambian football circles.
Minnaert, a long-time admirer and student of Zambian football, has finally landed a direct challenge against a Zambian giant after years of flirting with the local game. So deep is his knowledge that he once came close to taking charge of the Chipolopolo in 2019, when he made the final shortlist of seven candidates.
This time, his mission is clear guide Vipers past Power Dynamos and into the lucrative group stages. And with the kind of artillery at his disposal including the crafty Allan Okello, experienced striker Yunus Sentamu, and the versatile Milton Karisa Minnaert is plotting a tactical ambush that Aba Yellow cannot afford to underestimate.
Power, who dumped out Ivorian giants ASEC Mimosas in the previous round, know that Vipers will be no walk in the park. The Ugandan side, fresh from eliminating Namibia’s African Stars, boast a squad seasoned with continental pedigree, even contributing seven players to the Uganda Cranes’ CHAN team.
For Zambian clubs, this is where the homework must be done. In 2025, it is no longer acceptable for teams to walk into such crucial fixtures without extensive knowledge of their opponents. Research, scouting, and tactical preparation are no longer luxuries they are survival kits. Both Power Dynamos and Zesco United will need to sharpen their analytical edge if they are to take Zambian football further in continental competitions.
Minnaert may not have coached in Zambia yet, but he finally gets the chance to test his wit against Zambian opposition and he will be itching to prove a point to those who never gave him the nod on Zambian soil.
The stage is set, Aba Yellow’s pride is on the line, and Minnaert has his plot drawn. The only question is who blinks first?
