Zambia Under-17 head coach Chris Kaunda has boldly declared that the COSAFA Under-17 Championship trophy “belongs to Zambia” as his side gears up to defend their crown at this year’s edition in Harare, Zimbabwe.
The regional showpiece kicks off this afternoon, featuring 12 nations vying for three qualification spots at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. That continental tournament will serve as a gateway to the expanded 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar, where 10 African teams will feature for the first time.
A Tough Group B Challenge
The Junior Chipolopolo have been placed in Group B, a competitive pool that includes rivals South Africa, Madagascar, and Malawi. Hosts Zimbabwe headline Group A alongside Mozambique, Comoros, and eSwatini, while Angola, Botswana, Mauritius, and Lesotho make up Group C.
Experience and Continuity in the Squad
Coach Kaunda believes Zambia’s edge lies in continuity, with several key players from last year’s title-winning squad returning to guide the newcomers.
“We have about five boys from the previous team that qualified for the World Cup, and they’re guiding the newcomers,” Kaunda explained. “The preparation time has been short, but so far so good—they are responding well.”
He added that Zambia is not intimidated by the opposition’s names or reputations:
“Me, I don’t believe in the names of countries. The game is played on the pitch, and anything can happen.”
Kaunda: “It Belongs to Zambia”
Despite their recent dominance, Kaunda stressed the importance of focus and hard work.
“Of course we would love to retain the title. No one wants to lose. It belongs to Zambia,” he said. “Other teams have new boys too, and with the new system where you must qualify every year for AFCON, squads change often. We just need to stay focused and prepare the boys.”
Opening Match Against South Africa
Zambia will begin their COSAFA U17 campaign against South Africa on Friday at 15:00 in Harare, a clash that promises fireworks given the history between the two sides at youth level.
