UNDER-17 BOYS OFF TO HARARE FOR COSAFA AFCON MEET

09.09.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️

The Zambia U-17 boys’ national soccer team this afternoon departed for Harare, Zimbabwe, ahead of the 2025 COSAFA U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Speaking before departure, head coach Chris Kaunda expressed confidence in his young charges, praising their commitment during preparations.

“The boys have given everything in training. For many, this will be their first experience at international level, but it will be a great opportunity for them to gain exposure. I believe we have what it takes to defend our championship and keep Zambia’s status strong in the region,” Kaunda said.

Team captain Nthasilwe Malupande echoed his coach’s sentiments, stressing that the squad’s main target is to retain the title.

“We are ready for the challenge and determined to bring the trophy back home,” Malupande declared.

Zambia, the defending champions and four-time winners of the competition, have been drawn in a challenging group alongside South Africa, Malawi, and Madagascar. The top four teams from the qualifiers will book a place at the AFCON U-17 tournament.

Final Squad List

Goalkeepers

William Zulu (Atletico Lusaka)

Christopher Wamundila (Junior Crocs)

Defenders

Emmanuel Mbuti (Young Crocs)

Danivar Sianchongwe (Titans FC)

Bright Phiri (Atletico Lusaka)

Levison Banda (Superade Academy)

Pablo Ndalama (Dream Factory)

Midfielders

Joseph Chizawu

Steven Lungu (Morkved Academy)

Gift Mumbi (Shamuel FC)

Ntasiwile Malupande (Kafue Celtic)

Nelson Chilemu (Kafue Celtic)

Temwani Siamfukwe (Atletico Lusaka)

Strikers

Kelvin Chipelu (Forest Rangers)

Mambwe Kalusa (Atletico Lusaka)

Reuben Kampamba (Shamuel FC)

Mapalo Simute (Mkushi Rising Stars)

Albert Kunda (Demofras Academy)

Joseph Zulu (Nangweshi Pirates)

Caleb Musonda (Young Crocs)

With confidence and determination, the Junior Chipolopolo are set to fight for glory and defend their crown in Harare.