Zambia Under-20 coach Perry Mutapa says his side still has plenty to improve on despite encouraging signs in their final preparations for the COSAFA Under-20 Championship.
The Junior Chipolopolo were held to contrasting results against National Division One side Athletico Lusaka on Thursday, winning the first of two practice matches 3-0 before losing the second 1-0.
Mutapa was encouraged by the intensity of the games but says Zambia must use their limited preparation time to sharpen all areas of their game before the tournament begins.
“Time is not with us but we will try to manage every area of the game because in every area I think we need to do well,” Mutapa told FAZ Media.
The coach was particularly pleased with how Zambia created opportunities in transition, but acknowledged that the team must become more clinical.
“I think we caught Athletico many times in transition and we could have scored. We are going to work on all the areas. All the areas are important in football.”
Zambia have been drawn in Group C alongside Malawi, Comoros and Botswana at the tournament, which will be hosted by Mozambique from 18 to 27 September.
Goalkeeper Christo Chitamba says the squad has ambitions beyond defending Zambia’s regional reputation, with a place at the Africa Cup of Nations and a potential World Cup qualification the ultimate targets.
“Our main goal is not just to win the COSAFA but qualify for the AFCON and go to the World Cup,” Chitamba said.
Winger Kayula Chinunda believes the unity within the squad will be crucial as Zambia prepare for the tournament.
“There is team unity in camp. We are talking and bonding with each other in camp. This is good for us especially when we have a tournament.”
Zambia are 12-time COSAFA Under-20 champions and will be aiming for a record-extending 13th title in Mozambique.
The two finalists will qualify for the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
