Midfielder Miguel Chaiwa says he has been working hard for this opportunity – the youngster was speaking following his inclusion in Avram Grant’s 27 member squad for the 2023 AFCON.
Chaiwa believes hard work is the reason he made the squad and he went on to say being part of the AFCON Squad is every young players’ dream.
Chaiwa is with the Chipolopolo squad that got down to business in the Saudi City of Taif with a recovery session held at the King Fahd City Sports Complex yesterday.
“First and foremost it’s a big opportunity for me. This is what I have been working hard for,” he said.
“What helped me so much is hard work. My target has always been to play in the AFCON. Without hard work it’s impossible to be in the team. You have to work on your mistakes and put God first always.”
“This Is every young players’ dream to be part of the team among big players. You have to respect the senior players. I have blended in well with the senior players,” he added.
The former Zambia U-17 National Team skipper believes the Chipolopolo Boys have a good squad that can achieve something special.
“The youth level helps you to be ready when it’s time to play for the senior team. We have a lot to learn as young players. This is a big opportunity. I have to use it as much as possible to do my best,” he said.
“If I am given a chance, I will definitely grab it with my two bare hands. I have played in the Champions League and some games at Senior level, I have seen the level and what I am supposed to do. Those games have helped me learn something, but the decision is for the coach and if he gives me an opportunity I will prove it.”
“I will just say continue supporting us, we have a good team capable of doing something beautiful. Keep encouraging us and believing in us,” he added.
Zambia will play Cameroon in an international friendly match on January 9 to help the technical bench gauge the progress made by the squad ahead of the tournament.
The Chipolopolo will play its opening match of the AFCON on January 17 against Congo before facing Tanzania four days later while the final Group F match will be against the Atlas Lions on January 24.
