The Zambia Under-17 National Team will take on four-time world champions Brazil in their final Group H match at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, with both sides already through to the knockout stage but separated only by goal difference. The match will take place at the Aspire Zone in Doha, with kickoff set for 17:45 CAT.
After two rounds of fixtures, Zambia and Brazil are level on six points, having each won their opening two games. Brazil lead the group with a superior goal difference of +11 after scoring 11 goals without conceding, while Zambia follow closely with +5, having found the net eight times and conceded three. A win for either side will guarantee top spot in the group, while a draw will be enough for Brazil to remain first. For Zambia, this encounter offers not only an opportunity to maintain their perfect record but also a chance to make a strong statement against one of world football’s most formidable youth sides.
Head coach Dennis Makinka has called for composure and tactical discipline ahead of what he described as one of the biggest games in Zambia’s youth football history.
“The Brazil game is a very huge game for the country and for the boys. It’s not every day that you play against Brazil. We have to treat it with the respect it deserves,” said Makinka.
“We have a plan, and the plan is to get maximum points. Our focus is on how we transition, defend, and attack together. Winning the first two games has boosted our confidence heading into this match.”
Makinka also confirmed that a few players were being assessed ahead of the clash, noting that while Rodgers remains unavailable and Saviour is undergoing medical checks, the team’s depth gives him confidence.
“This team has shown that anyone can step up at any time , that’s our strength,” he added.
Midfielder Kelvin Mulenga Chipelu shared the players’ mindset going into the encounter, acknowledging the magnitude of facing Brazil but expressing belief in the group’s unity and spirit.
“It will be a tough game, but we’re excited to play against Brazil. We’ve already qualified, but we’re encouraging each other to keep the winning mentality,” said Chipelu.
“We know each other well as a team; we just have to improve our defending and maintain our structure. We’re ready.”
Brazil come into the tie with a dominant record, scoring freely while keeping clean sheets, but Zambia have equally impressed with their blend of resilience, creativity, and attacking intent.
The Junior Chipolopolo have shown the ability to transition quickly from defence to attack and to control games through intelligent build-up play. Their organisation at the back, guided by strong leadership and tactical discipline, has been steadily improving with each match.
For Zambia, patience and composure will be vital. Brazil’s pace and fluid movement in the final third can exploit any defensive lapse, but Makinka’s side have already demonstrated their capacity to recover and adapt, as seen in their 5-2 win over Honduras.
As they step onto the pitch in Doha, Zambia do so not as underdogs but as worthy contenders , unbeaten, confident, and carrying the pride of a nation. Topping the group would mark another milestone in what is fast becoming a historic journey.
