The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has appointed Chipolopolo legend Collins Mbesuma as the strikers’ coach for the Zambia Under-17 Men’s National Team ahead of the upcoming COSAFA Under-17 Championship.
Mbesuma joins the newly constituted technical bench led by Chris Kaunda, as FAZ seeks to strengthen the Young Chipolopolo’s preparations for a campaign aimed at qualifying for the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations and ultimately the 2027 FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
A Legendary Goalscorer Returns
One of Zambia’s greatest-ever strikers, Mbesuma brings a wealth of experience to the national youth setup.
Nicknamed “King Cobra,” he enjoyed a distinguished playing career that saw him feature for clubs in Zambia, South Africa and England, while establishing himself as one of the finest goalscorers the country has ever produced.
He remains one of the most decorated Zambian footballers, having won numerous individual accolades during his career.
An Impressive Football Legacy
Mbesuma rose to prominence with Kabwe Warriors before making a name for himself in South Africa with Kaizer Chiefs, where he enjoyed a phenomenal 2004/05 season, scoring 35 goals in all competitions.
That remarkable campaign earned him the Premier Soccer League Player of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season, and the Golden Boot, making him one of the few players to sweep South Africa’s major individual awards in a single season.
His performances also earned him a move to the English Premier League with Portsmouth, before later enjoying spells with clubs including Marítimo, Bursaspor, Golden Arrows, Orlando Pirates, Mpumalanga Black Aces, and Highlands Park.
Passing on His Experience
Mbesuma’s appointment is expected to play a key role in developing Zambia’s next generation of strikers.
As strikers’ coach, he will work closely with the team’s forwards, helping them improve their finishing, movement, positioning and overall attacking play.
His experience at the highest level of African and European football makes him a valuable addition to the technical team.
Strong Technical Team
Mbesuma will work alongside head coach Chris Kaunda, first assistant Dennis Makinka, second assistant Dabwitso Nkhoma, and goalkeeper coach Joshua Titima.
The technical bench has been tasked with guiding Zambia through the COSAFA Under-17 Championship, which serves as the qualification tournament for the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations.
Qualification for AFCON would keep Zambia’s hopes alive of reaching the 2027 FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
Conclusion
Collins Mbesuma’s appointment represents another important step in FAZ’s efforts to invest in youth development.
With one of Zambia’s greatest goalscorers now mentoring the country’s brightest young forwards, the Young Chipolopolo will be hoping his knowledge, experience and winning mentality can inspire them on the road to continental and global qualification.
