Mutapa impressed with Zambia spirit ahead of Malawi Four Nations test

Zambia national team assistant coach Osward Mutapa says the team has shown positive signs in the first two training sessions as the fine – tuning for the Four – Nations Tournament continues in Francistown, Botswana.

Speaking shortly after conducting his second training session at Francistown Old Stadium, Mutapa described the training intensity as encouraging, noting strong competition among players vying for selection.

Zambia players showing hunger in what they want

“You could see they are showing hunger in what they want to participate in, especially being among those to be named in the first team,” Mutapa said.

OSWARD MUTAPA NAMES BOTSWANA FOUR NATIONS TOURNAMENT SQUAD!

NOTE: Draws for the Mukuru Four Nations Tournament will be held today.#WeAreChipolopolo pic.twitter.com/eaXbDtzJqO

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He added the players have adapted well following their arrival in Botswana.

“Our flight was a short one and from yesterday’s session you could see the boys were in good spirits. Even today, there’s nothing like struggling. We have settled well,” Mutapa said.

The assistant coach noted with the team still being assembled, focus remains on improving all aspects of play. Mutapa emphasised the importance of respecting opponents while maintaining a winning mentality.

“In football it’s important to respect every team because it’s all about moments. But we will play to our ability with a mentality of winning,” he said.

He added the immediate target is to win the opening match and secure a place in the final. Meanwhile, Mutapa has named Abraham Siankombo and Golden Mashata as team captain and vice-captain respectively for the four – nations assignment.

‘We need to compete among ourselves’

And Mashata says familiarity among locally-based players has strengthened the team chemistry and morale ahead of the tournament. Mashata said the squad, largely comprising players from the same domestic league has developed a strong understanding on and off the pitch.

“My observation is that there’s a lot of competition in our team and I think it’s good for the team and for the tournament because we need to compete among ourselves before we compete against other teams,” Mashata said.

He said being part of the national team carries equal responsibility for all players, regardless of age or experience.

“I’ve understood this is the national team. There is no senior or junior player. As long as you are called upon, it means you deserve to be here. I’m encouraging each and every player to be in one accord and to always believe in each other because oneness is the goal,” he said.

Mashata said morale has remained high due to the strong bond among players.

Zambia face Malawi on Saturday at 15:00 at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium.

Zambia squad for Four Nations tournament;

Goalkeepers; Christo Chitambala (Red Arrows), Patrick Choma (Nkana), Luka Mainza (Nkana).

Defenders; Jonathan Kalimina (Kafue Celtic), Headson Paina (Green Eagles), Kamfuti Sausande (Trident), Jackson Phiri (Konkola Blades), Yoram Chanda (Kabwe Warriors), Ronald Chanda Chileshe (Muza FC), Joseph Mulenga (Nchanga Rangers), William Kamwanga (Mufulira Wanderers).

Midfielders; Luka Mutoshi, Abraham Siankombo (both Zesco United), Humphrey Bwembya, Francis Banda (Kabwe Warriors), Patson Kwataime (Mufulira Wanderers), Dominic Kanda, Ian Sindaye (both Zanaco), Kelvin Chipelu (Forest Rangers).

Forwards; Derrick Bulaya (Green Eagles), Abel Nyirongo (Atletico Lusaka), Eliya Mandanji (Zanaco), Bridger Ng’andu, Rickson Ng’ambi (both FC Muza), Elliot Kampukesa (Nchanga Rangers), Golden Mashata (Green Buffaloes).