Zambia U17 AFCON Preparations Intensify as Bakala Names 40 for Second Camp

08.02.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️

The Zambia U17 Men’s National Team has ramped up preparations for the TotalEnergies U17 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to take place from March 30 – April 19, 2025, in Morocco. Head coach Ian Bakala has summoned a 40-member provisional squad for the second phase of training as the team continues to sharpen its skills for the continental tournament.

Building on the First Camp

Most of the players named were part of the initial one-week camp held in January, which laid the foundation for the team’s tactical and physical readiness. The upcoming camp will allow Bakala and his technical bench to assess player progress, enhance team cohesion, and fine-tune strategies as Zambia aims to make a mark in Morocco.

A Bigger Tournament, a Bigger Challenge

The 2025 U17 AFCON will be the 15th edition of the tournament and comes with a new expanded format, increasing the number of teams from 12 to 16. This expansion raises the level of competition, making thorough preparations crucial.

More importantly, the tournament serves as a pathway to the FIFA U17 World Cup in November 2025. Africa’s top 10 teams will earn qualification, making Zambia’s mission even more critical.

Provisional Squad for the Second Camp

Goalkeepers

Rodgers Simumba (Shamuel Academy)

William Zulu (Shamuel Academy)

Kumbu Nyirenda (Billy Pro Sport)

Defenders

Ben Chembe (Bristol Academy)

James Sibene (Sporting Lusaka)

Orton Phiri (Kafue Celtic)

Jonathan Kalimina (Kafue Celtic)

Jonathan Mudenda (Atletico Lusaka)

Kelvin Simukoko (Game On Academy)

Emmanuel Mbuti (Young Crocs)

Saviour Mwansa (Young Crocs)

Tembani Ngoma (Cubs Academy)

Moses Phiri (Hamz Academy)

David Chiwisa (Relentless Kings Academy)

Malama Chama (Young Red Arrows)

Midfielders

Mapalo Simute (Mkushi Rising Stars)

Caristo Munkombwe (Nangweshi Pirates)

Mike Mutale Bwalya (Makeni All Stars)

Gift Mumbi (Game On Academy)

Gabriel Phiri (NAPSA Stars)

Felix Phiri (Lusaka Youth)

Nthasilwe Malupande (Young Crocs)

Vincent Mutondo (Central City)

Nkotami Chimwemwe (Mpongwe United)

Chongo Kangwa (Billy Pro Sport)

Daniel Sulubonde (Mines United)

Gabriel Kaunda (Kingstone Academy)

Godfrey Kampamba (OYDC)

Russell Kalumbeta (Atletico Lusaka)

Aston Chishimba (Atletico Lusaka)

Bongani Ndhlovu (Young Zanaco)

Nevers Kandingwa (Young Forest)

Strikers

Abel Salim Nyirongo (Atletico Lusaka)

Robert Banda (Atletico Lusaka)

James Chisenga (BUSA)

Kelvin Mulenga (Young Forest)

Joseph Zulu (Nangweshi Pirates)

Jimmy Banda (Collins Mbesuma Academy)

Charles Kampamba (Matero United)

William Sukumuna (Mpika Youth)

What’s Next for the Team?

With the tournament just over a month away, Bakala and his coaching staff will be closely monitoring the players' fitness, form, and tactical adaptability during the second camp. The competition for final squad selection is expected to be intense, with each player looking to secure a place in the final squad that will represent Zambia at the U17 AFCON.

Zambia has a rich history in youth football, and the U17 squad will be aiming to add to that legacy. As preparations enter high gear, fans will be eagerly anticipating updates on the team’s progress and final squad selection.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Junior Chipolopolo gear up for their biggest test yet!