Nyirenda targets record-extending COSAFA Cup with Zambia

Photo Credit - Football Association of Zambia (FAZ).

"Support us and we will not let you down," promised Wedson Nyirenda.  The Zambia national team coach is calling on the fans to rally behind the squad as they pursue a double objective: winning the COSAFA Cup title and preparing for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The Chipolopolo will head into the tournament with a clear mission to secure a record-extending eighth COSAFA Cup title. They will face Comoros and Botswana in Group D and aim to reach the knockout stages.

“Zambia is a footballing nation; our fans don’t settle for less in any tournament. There is nothing like a small tournament in Zambia. So as long as you don that jersey, you have to deliver,” Nyirenda said.

"The team is ready for the tournament. The boys are looking so positive. They are committed to the cause and we cannot complain about anything. We do not have any injuries and everyone is okay," added the coach.

The Chipolopolo will get their campaign under way against Comoros on Friday, June 6, before facing Botswana in their second and final group match on Wednesday, June 11.

Only the top team in each group is guaranteed progression to the knockouts of the regional tournament, which will run until June 15.

Who is in Zambia's final squad?

(GOALKEEPERS); David Mumba (Konkola Blades), Charles Kalumba (Red Arrows), Lawrence Mulenga (Power Dynamos).

(DEFENDERS); Fred Mwiche (Zesco United), Happy Nsiku (Red Arrows), Frederick Mwimanzi (Zanaco), John Soko (Power Dynamos), Jackson Phiri (Barts FC), Mathews Banda (Nkana), Tinkler Sinkala (Kabwe Warriors).

(MIDFIELDERS); Harrison Chisala (Nkana), Kenneth Kasanga (Nkwazi), Golden Mashata (Green Buffaloes), Charles Zulu (Nkana), Kelvin Mwanza (MUZA FC), Frederick Mulambia, Owen Tembo (both Power Dynamos), Abraham Siankombo, Leonard Mulenga (both Zesco United).

(STRIKERS); Andrew Phiri (MUZA FC), Titus Chansa (Power Dynamos), Joseph Phiri (Red Arrows), Evans Kayombo (Napsa Stars).