By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Chipolopolo assistant coach Oswald Mutapa says it’s important to build a habit of winning in the Zambia U23 squad that has been assembled to take part in the Mukuru Four Nations Tournament.
Mutapa is treating the tournament as a developmental phase but is adamant that the winning habit starts now.
Mutapa was speaking at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport prior to departure for Francis Town.
“A very good platform. Starting from the two games that we are going to play, it’s important that we understand that yes , it’s developmental but also we have to know that it’s important that we have that habit of winning. For us to do better at senior level, or even at developmental we need to win and show that we are capable of doing what is required of us,” Mutapa said.
Mutapa highlighted that although the squad is young, it is not short on experience.
“A very youthful side but with alot games in their legs in terms of having played for the u17 and u20 and of course now upgrading to u23, Abit of experience one of them being Abraham siankombo but we are just trying to mix even as we go, other teams are fielding in professionals but it is important that we are also picking players that are going to deliver the results.”
Coach Mutapa remains unfazed by the level of other teams insisting his team will approach the tournament with confidence.
“Football is the same everywhere you go so there is no way we are going to fear, we just have to compete just like the other team going to Argentina. For me there is no need to fear. It’s a platform given, first as an individual and secondly as a team and thirdly as a country. We need to go there, showcase our talent but also show effort that we are capable of doing it and bringing the results.”
Mutapa acknowledged the familiar rivalry with Malawi but stressed the importance of execution.
“Always an interesting derby with Malawi, our neighbors but it’s the application on the day of the game and I feel we have the players that can do the job. Yes they are fielding professionals but we have the boys that are able to do the job.”
He also called on his players to embrace the challenge and have a winning mindset.
“Firstly we have to believe in ourselves that we are a very capable side. With the five or six sessions that we have had, you can see the capabilities in the boys but again, remove the fear go out and enjoy, play to your abilities as well. We need the mentality and habit of winning.”
Zambia is set for action at the Mukuru Four Nations Tournament, scheduled for March 28–31, 2026, in Francistown, Botswana.
The competition will feature Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Malawi at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium.
The Chipolopolo will start the tournament with a semi-final clash against Malawi on March 28. The winner will progress to the final on March 31, where either hosts Botswana or Zimbabwe will be waiting with the two losers facing off in the third and fourth play off.
