Zambia U20 Out for Revenge and Qualification Against South Africa
Zambia U20 head coach Boyd Mulwanda has made it clear—only a win will do when the Young Chipolopolo take on South Africa in their final CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Group A match on Wednesday.
Currently sitting third in Group A with 5 points, Zambia have everything to play for when they face their COSAFA rivals, who beat them 2-0 at the 2024 COSAFA U20 Championship in Mozambique.
“This is a game we need to win at all costs for us to progress to the next round,” said Mulwanda.
Time for Payback After COSAFA Disappointment
Zambia’s loss to South Africa in the COSAFA final still lingers, and Mulwanda says this is the perfect stage to set the record straight.
“Yeah, it will be a different ball game altogether. We are meeting at AFCON, they beat us in COSAFA, we just also want to take that revenge,” he said.
“We lost 2-0 in Mozambique—we have to make amends and carry the day.”
Victory would not only secure a quarterfinal place for Zambia but could also see them top Group A, depending on the outcome of the Egypt vs Tanzania fixture.
Converting Chances: Zambia’s Biggest Challenge
Despite their fighting spirit, Zambia have struggled in front of goal, scoring only once in three games—a stoppage-time penalty against Tanzania. Mulwanda acknowledged the issue and revealed the technical bench is working hard to improve finishing.
“We are trying to come up with a session that helps the boys to be clinical at goal,” Mulwanda stated.
“Pick a spot and put the ball there. We need to be composed, calm, and take our chances.”
With South Africa boasting a solid attacking record, Zambia’s efficiency in the final third could be the decisive factor.
Quarterfinals, World Cup Dreams, and Bigger Ambitions
For Mulwanda, the stakes are high not just for progression in the tournament, but also for the players’ futures. A place in the quarterfinals could open the door to a FIFA U20 World Cup qualification, and with it, greater global exposure.
“This is their show. Whatever they do here is going to help them market themselves,” he emphasized.
“From here, if we qualify to the World Cup, it will be more exposure, and they’ll meet different challenges and playing styles that will help them improve.”
Mulwanda remains optimistic but grounded, noting that while he can’t promise victory, the team is determined to give it everything.
“We can’t promise, but we will do our best and give them the positive result they desire.”
📊 Group A Standings Before Final Matches
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🇸🇱 Sierra Leone – 7 pts
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🇿🇦 South Africa – 6 pts
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🇿🇲 Zambia – 5 pts
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🇪🇬 Egypt – 4 pts
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🇹🇿 Tanzania – 1 pt
