Atletico Lusaka Turning Doubters into Believers
Atletico Lusaka, dubbed “the young boys,” are now proving themselves as the “bad boys” of Zambian football, silencing critics who once questioned their abilities and style of play. As they continue to impress in the Zambian Premier League (ZPL), it’s becoming clear that their commitment to a unique playing philosophy is paying off, even when results don’t always go their way.
First, let’s address the age narrative. It’s time for Zambian football fans to stop labeling Atletico Lusaka as a team of “young boys.” Age should no longer be the focal point of discussion in professional leagues. Atletico’s players have shown maturity beyond their years, consistently proving that talent and skill, not age, define success. These “bad boys” have embraced their identity and are thriving under it, earning respect from opponents and fans alike.
For a long time, there’s been a call for Zambian football to develop a clear identity, and Atletico Lusaka may well be leading that charge. Their success isn’t an overnight phenomenon; it’s the result of deliberate planning, commitment to a footballing philosophy, and taking their academy structure seriously. Clubs in Zambia should take note this is how you build a sustainable football model. Atletico’s philosophy is ingrained in every level of their club, from the U8s all the way to the senior team.
Having once coached Atletico’s U8s, I experienced firsthand how seriously they take their philosophy. The technical director (TD) was clear from day one about the dos and don’ts, and that discipline extends to every aspect of their operation. Even now, I could run a session without fear of deviation because the club’s philosophy is that consistent. It’s this approach that many clubs in the ZPL are starting to admire and, in some cases, seek to emulate.
One of the biggest criticisms Atletico faced early on was their emphasis on possession football. Some argued that football is about scoring goals, not just holding onto the ball. What these critics failed to see was that Atletico wasn’t just playing for possession’s sake; they had a plan. The team controls the game, attracting opponents into their half before exploiting the spaces left behind with their attacking play. This possession-based style allows them to dictate matches and tire out opponents.
A perfect example was their recent clash against Green Eagles. This was the third time the teams had met, with Atletico winning 3-0 in the first encounter and losing 3-1 in the ABSA game. In their latest meeting, Atletico won 1-0, showcasing their tactical discipline and resilience. While their 5-0 loss to Power Dynamos raised eyebrows and fueled criticisms, the bad boys responded by proving they can handle setbacks and still maintain their playing philosophy.
Ask any ZPL team to clearly explain their club’s philosophy, and you’ll find that many struggle. This lack of identity often leads to inconsistent performances and the frequent hiring and firing of coaches. Atletico’s strong backline and disciplined play stem from a system that has been cultivated over time. Like Real Madrid, where even the U8s train with the same philosophy as the senior team (tailored for their age group), Atletico is creating a seamless transition for players as they progress through the ranks.
This approach is why Atletico can defend with such strength and play with confidence even in high-pressure situations. Their young but solid back four has already proven capable of keeping clean sheets and holding their ground until the final whistle.
Atletico Lusaka is now converting skeptics into believers. The project, which started in 2021, is coming to fruition, and fans can clearly see the results. Critics who once said the team would tire out or that they lacked goals have now gone quiet. Atletico not only dominates possession but also scores goals, demonstrating that their playing philosophy is built for success.
As more clubs and fans recognize the value of such an approach, it’s crucial to support the coaches who are doing the right things in Zambian football. Coaches like Aron Kwangu of the U15 national team, and those at Mokved Academy and Sheimac Soccer Academy, are leading the charge for a new wave of football development in the country.
Atletico Lusaka’s rise should serve as a model for the rest of the ZPL. By embracing football technology, committing to a playing philosophy, and investing in youth development, they have shown that Zambian football can compete at a higher level. The future is bright, and with more teams following Atletico’s example, Zambia’s football landscape is bound to transform.
Atletico Lusaka isn’t just about winning games they are about building something lasting, something that will keep Zambian football on the map for years to come.
