AFCON: Zambia duo take lessons from Morocco despite early exit

Zambia national team goalkeeper Willard Mwanza has thanked the technical bench for trusting him with a chance to play at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, describing it as a big step in his career.

Mwanza said the exposure at the continent’s biggest football showpiece will help him grow as a player and push the team to return stronger and more competitive at the next AFCON.

Meanwhile, midfielder Given Kalusa has also spoken positively about his first AFCON outing, even though he featured in only one match.

AFCON remains one of the major events

Speaking before the team’s departure for Lusaka, Kalusa said being part of Africa’s biggest football tournament was a priceless experience.

He added that AFCON remains one of the major events on the global football calendar. Kalusa brushed off claims that Chipolopolo players were intimidated by the large Moroccan crowds, saying the team stayed focused on the match.

“Our concentration was on the eleven players on the pitch, not the crowd. The supporters were not part of the game,” Kalusa said.

The Chipolopolo were eliminated from the AFCON in Morocco after recording two draws and one defeat against the hosts.

The team has since returned home, while foreign-based players have gone back to their respective clubs.