Photo Credit: Football Association of Zambia (FAZ)
Zambia women’s U17 captain Mercy Chipasula has said they will not disappoint when they take the pitch to represent their nation in the U17 FIFA World Cup in Morocco.
Chipasula says as a captain she would aim to lead by example, adding that the lessons of the 2024 Dominican Republic outing will propel the squad to success at this year’s showpiece.
“The group is tough, but we will not disappoint or let the country down. We want to win the first game, as that will give us confidence,” said Chipasula as quoted by FAZ Media. “I want to push myself and score a goal to help the team. We will not disappoint or let the country down this year. Let them believe in us and we shall deliver”.
Chipasula further said the squad has enough belief this time around to go beyond the group stage.
“Training is good, and everyone is pushing. We are working hard in readiness for the task ahead. Yes, we did not do well at the previous edition, but this year, we want to do better. We will work hard, believe in ourselves and play as a team.
“As a captain, I have to lead by example and score goals that will help the team.”
The team which is in Group F alongside Paraguay, Japan and New Zealand will set up base in Morocco where they are expected to play some preparatory matches.
Zambia’s opening match is on October 19 against Paraguay at the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 3) in Sale before facing Japan three days later at the same venue.
Their final game will be against New Zealand at the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 2). Top two teams in each group will qualify to the knockout stages of the tournament.
The Copper Princesses will depart for Morocco on Saturday for a pre-tournament camp that will see them play three international preparatory matches before the tournament starts.
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