Zambia’s Under-15 boys national team is showing strong progress in training ahead of the Africa Schools Football Championship COSAFA qualifiers in South Africa. Coach Evaristo Mkandawire says the squad has responded well to preparations and is performing strongly in locally organised practice matches.
Mkandawire, a Moomba Secondary School science teacher and CAF B coaching licence holder, highlighted the dedication and industry of the players since entering camp. “So far we can say that the squad is taking shape. We started our training last week and played Kafue Celtic Under-15. In that game, the boys showed character and won 2-1,” he said.
The team also played a friendly against Aguila Under-17, ending in a 0-0 draw. Mkandawire noted that despite the draw, the match demonstrated that the team is getting ready for the COSAFA challenge. He added that the squad will conclude camp with a few more preparatory matches before officially finalising the team for the tournament.
Midfielder John Musonda from Muchinga Secondary School in Lusaka praised the high morale in camp, noting that the team is playing cohesively and capable of dominating opponents. Striker Emmanuel Mwape, a grade seven pupil from Don Bosco School in Luwingu, expressed confidence in the squad, declaring that Zambia will win the championship and secure qualification for the Africa Schools Football Championship.
The preparations signal a focused and united squad ready to represent Zambia at the COSAFA qualifiers, with coaches and players aiming to build momentum ahead of the continental stage.