Zambia Under-23 midfielder Given Kalusa says the fierce competition for places is helping raise standards in camp as the Junior Chipolopolo prepare for the 2027 Africa U23 Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Kalusa believes the quality of players assembled by coach Chisi Mbewe has created a highly competitive environment, with every player being pushed to perform at their best.
The FC MUZA midfielder says players with senior national team experience should embrace the challenge from younger members of the squad and use the competition as motivation to improve.
Kalusa was speaking after the Junior Chipolopolo edged Kafue Celtics 4-3 in a practice match at Nkoloma Stadium on Wednesday.
He says the level of competition within the squad can only benefit the team as preparations continue ahead of the qualifiers.
Zambia will face the winner of the tie between Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso in the second round of the U23 AFCON qualifiers, with the first and second legs scheduled for 9 and 17 November respectively.
The qualifiers form part of Zambia’s campaign to reach the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
