The Zambia Under-17 men’s national team continued their impressive preparations for the upcoming 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup with a convincing 3–1 victory over Mexico in an international friendly played in Dubai. Goals from Robert Banda, Jonathan Kalimina, and Abel Nyirongo sealed a morale-boosting win for Dennis Makinka’s side, as they fine-tune their systems ahead of their opening Group H encounter against hosts Indonesia on November 4.
The victory comes as a major confidence boost for the young Chipolopolo, who are using the Dubai camp as their final base before heading to Qatar. With less than a week before the global showpiece kicks off, the result against Mexico highlights Zambia’s growing cohesion and attacking potential.
Zambia’s Dominant Display in Dubai
From the onset, Zambia looked sharp, composed, and hungry to make a statement. Robert Banda opened the scoring midway through the first half after capitalizing on a defensive lapse from the Mexican backline. His early goal settled nerves and set the tone for the rest of the match, as the young Chipolopolo dictated play with confidence and purpose.
In the second half, Jonathan Kalimina doubled the lead with a stunning strike from the edge of the area, leaving the Mexican goalkeeper rooted to the spot. Abel Nyirongo later added a third with a calm finish following a swift counterattack, further underlining Zambia’s clinical edge in front of goal. Mexico managed to pull one back late in the game, but by then, Makinka’s men were in full control.
Momentum Building Ahead of the World Cup
Coach Dennis Makinka will take great encouragement from the team’s performance — not just because of the result, but also because of the maturity displayed across all departments. The defensive pairing of James Nene Sibeene and Robert Banda looked solid, while midfielders Nthasilwe Malupande and Mapalo Simute dictated the tempo with confidence and composure.
Makinka’s tactical flexibility was evident as he rotated players throughout the match to test different combinations. The team’s ability to transition quickly and press high will be crucial when they face some of the world’s best youth teams, including Brazil, Honduras, and Indonesia in Group H.
Looking Ahead to Indonesia 2025
With the friendly win against Mexico, Zambia have now built the momentum they needed heading into the World Cup. The result not only boosts morale but also sends a message that the young Chipolopolo are ready to compete on the global stage.
Zambia will open their campaign against Indonesia on November 4, before facing Honduras and Brazil in what promises to be a challenging but exciting group. Coach Makinka’s blend of local academy talents and emerging stars has the potential to surprise many, and if their Dubai form is anything to go by, Zambia could be set for a historic tournament.
Conclusion
The 3–1 win over Mexico marks another important milestone in Zambia’s U-17 World Cup preparations. With the team showing discipline, tactical awareness, and attacking flair, confidence is growing ahead of their Group H opener. The young Chipolopolo have shown they can match international opposition — and now, all eyes will be on how they perform when the world watches in Qatar.
