The Zambia U17 Men’s National Team has left for the TotalEnergies U17 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) due in Morocco from March 30 to April 19, 2025.
The team left Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka aboard Emirates Airlines at 21h35 on their way to the tournament.
Coach Ian Bakala is leading a 25-member squad carefully selected to represent Zambia on the grand stage where they have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Uganda and Tanzania.
Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary Reuben Kamanga was on hand to see off the team, encouraging the players to represent the nation with pride and determination.
The TotalEnergies U17 AFCON will mark the 15th edition of the U17 AFCON and, for the first time, has been expanded from 12 to 16 teams.
It also serves as a qualification pathway to the FIFA U17 World Cup set for November 2025 with the top 10 African nations securing a spot on the global stage.
FINAL SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS
William Zulu (Blaze Sporting Academy), Rogers Simumba (Shamuel Soccer Academy)
DEFENDERS
George Mwale, Chama Chansa (Young Crocs), Andrew Mwape (Young ZANACO), Saviour Mwnasa (Young Crocs), Christo Chitambala (Eromac FC), Billy Daka (Nkwazi FC), Jonathan Kalimina (Kafue Celtic), Chimuka Lweendo (Atletico Lusaka)
MIDFIELDERS
Gabriel Phiri (NAPSA Stars), Bongani Ndhlovu (Young Zanaco), Steven Lungu (Morkved Sports Club), James Nene Sibeene (Sporting Lusaka), Vincent Mutondo (Central City), Nkotami Chimwemwe (Mpongwe United), Mapalo Simute (Mkushi Rising Stars), Mike Mutale (Makeni All Stars), Kelvin Mulenga (Forest Rangers), Joseph Zulu (Nangweshi Pirates), Felix Phiri (Lusaka Youth Soccer Academy)
STRIKERS
Abel Salim Nyirongo, Robert Banda (both Atletico Lusaka), Nthasilwe Malupande (Young Crocs), Daniel Silubonde (Morkved Sports Club)