Zambia’s Futsal National Team coach, Andrea Cristoforetti, has called up 17 players for two international friendly matches against South Africa. The fixtures, scheduled for December 19 and 21, 2025, will be held at the Automotive Futsal Arena in Lusaka. These matches form part of preparations for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Cristoforetti has retained the core of the team that competed at the Thailand Invitational tournament in Bangkok, signaling continuity and stability in squad selection. The team features a mix of experience and emerging talent, drawn mainly from Lusaka Automotive, Kafue Saints, Mudi Stars, and Green Buffaloes.
The squad includes three goalkeepers: Jackson Chitungu (Lusaka Automotive), Lackson Daka (Kafue Saints), and Martin Chulu (Mudi Stars). The defensive line is composed of Chota Chileshe, James Zulu, Royd Chisala (all Lusaka Automotive), Erick Kaunda (Kafue Saints), and Jackson Simwami and Boniface Ndhlovu (both Mudi Stars).
Wingers called up for the matches are Charles Simbeye (Mud Stars), Leevan Nyirenda (Kafue Saints), James Mwila, Francis Chinyama, Jeff Phiri (all Lusaka Automotive), and Misheck Chirwa (Green Buffaloes). The team’s pivots are Patrick Banda (Lusaka Automotive) and Musa Chiwaya (Kafue Celtic).
Cristoforetti will be supported by a technical bench comprising Roberto Coccia as assistant coach, Phillemon Chakoleka as team manager, Ricky Mutinta Shamuyombwe as physiotherapist, and Jacob Phiri as team doctor.
These friendlies against South Africa are expected to provide the team with crucial match practice, tactical fine-tuning, and cohesion ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. With a blend of experienced players and young talent, Zambia aims to strengthen its competitive edge and build momentum for the continental tournament.