Zambia U-23 midfielder Given Kalusa says the intense competition for places is helping raise standards in U23 camp as the Junior Chipolopolo prepare for the 2027 U23 AFCON qualifiers.
Kalusa says the quality of players assembled by coach Chisi Mbewe has created a highly competitive environment where every player is being pushed to perform at their best.
He believes players with senior national team experience should embrace the challenge from younger players and use it as motivation to improve. The FC MUZA player was speaking after his side edged Kafue Celtics 4-3 in a practice match played at Nkoloma stadium this afternoon
Zambia will face the winner between Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso in the second round of the U-23 AFCON qualifiers, with the first and second legs set for November 9 and 17. Meanwhile, Eliya Mandanji says the players in camp are ready to fight for their places as preparations intensify for the 2027 U-23 AFCON qualifiers.
Mandanji, who scored in the Junior Chipolopolo’s practice match, 4-3 victory over Kafue Celtics, this aftwrnnon says the competition in camp is bringing out the best in everyone. “The competition is there and everyone is ready to fight for the badge. Our objective is to work hard and make the final squad,” Mandanji said.
He says the presence of players with senior international experience is also helping motivate the younger players to make the most of the opportunity. The Junior Chipolopolo will face the winner between Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso in November as they begin their journey towards the 2028 Loss Angeles Olympics
