Zambia coach George Chilufya has spoken about the disappointment arising from the cancellation of the Africa Cup of Nations for the juniors in Morocco.

Zambia were already in Morocco when the Confederation of African Football announced the cancellation due to Covid-19 fears.

Now Cosafa website has quoted Chilufya saying he hopes the cancellation will not have a psychological effect on his charges.

 “It’s not good for African football, the boys and all of us have put in a lot [ahead of the tournament],” Chilufya is quoted saying.

“Not just us, but all the associations have invested in this. But again, we are living in a world that is full of surprises and this coronavirus has turned the world upside down.

“Nevertheless, we have boys that are just developing and what is important now is that we look after them so they remain positive so that their process of development continues.

“These boys were expectant and excited; we have a very talented group.

“So to be told that the tournament has been cancelled, from the way they responded they were disappointed, but after a few encouraging words they were better.”

Chilufya said the players need to maintain a positive attitude despite their obvious disappointment.

Zambia were in Group A along with the hosts, Uganda and Ivory Coast.