Wada Unveils Provisional Squad for CHAN Qualifiers
Chipolopolo coach Wedson “Wada” Nyirenda has announced a 33-man provisional squad ahead of Zambia’s crucial 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) final round qualifier against Mozambique. The squad, drawn exclusively from local-based players, reflects a blend of experience and fresh talent from the MTN Super League and ZPL National League.
The group features some familiar names, including defender Kabaso Chongo, Dominic Chanda, and goalkeepers Lawrence Mulenga and Charles Kalumba players who were instrumental in Zambia’s AFCON qualification as Group G winners.
Zambia will first travel to Mozambique for the first leg on December 21 before hosting the Mambas in the return leg on December 28. The winner of the two-legged tie will secure a ticket to the 2024 CHAN tournament, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from February 1 to 28, 2025.
Goalkeepers
Lawrence Mulenga (Power Dynamos)
Jackson Kakunta (Mines United)
Lucas Mainza (Nkwazi FC)
Charles Kalumba (Red Arrows)
Defenders
Mwape Mwenya (ZANACO FC)
Rodgers Lukonde (Kansanshi Dynamos)
David Hamansenya (Shamuel Academy)
David Bulaya (NAPSA Stars)
Kabaso Chongo, Killian Kanguluma (both Kabwe Warriors)
Dominic Chanda (Power Dynamos)
Chilimba Moonga (Green Buffaloes)
Midfielders
Kelvin Kapumbu (ZANACO FC)
Paul Katema, Ackim Mumba (both Red Arrows)
Collins Makungu (Mufulira Wanderers)
Lucky Wamundila (Mines United)
Kelvin Mwanza (FC MUZA)
Frederick Mulambia (Power Dynamos)
Kenneth Kasanga (Nkwazi FC)
Golden Mashata (Green Buffaloes)
Jackson Kampamba (Mutondo Stars)
Timothy Sichalwe (Atletico Lusaka)
Abraham Siankombo (ZESCO United)
Emmanuel Mwanza (NAPSA Stars)
Strikers
Titus Chansa (Mutondo Stars)
Jimmy Mukeya (NAPSA Stars)
Andrew Phiri (FC MUZA)
Ricky Banda (Red Arrows)
Daliso Lungu (Kansanshi Dynamos)
Philemon Chilimina (Chirundu United)
Nyirenda has emphasized tactical balance by selecting players with proven defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking prowess. The inclusion of experienced defenders like Kabaso Chongo and rising talents like Frederick Mulambia ensures a blend of leadership and energy. Meanwhile, Timothy Sichalwe and Golden Mashata are expected to provide dynamism in the middle of the park.
Zambia’s forwards will also be under scrutiny, with Ricky Banda and Titus Chansa spearheading the attack. Their ability to convert chances will be pivotal against a resilient Mozambique side.
With the CHAN tournament looming, Zambia has an opportunity to prove its mettle in this competition. Success in the qualifiers could build momentum for a strong showing in the main tournament, further raising the profile of local-based players.
Coach Wada’s squad selection is the first step, but the work lies ahead. Preparing adequately for the back-to-back fixtures, building team chemistry, and maintaining focus will determine Zambia’s fate.
As the countdown begins, the nation rallies behind the Chipolopolo, hoping for another proud moment in Zambian football history.
