By GODFREY DUBE –
NATIONAL team coach Wedson Nyirenda will lead the Under-20 technical bench during the away African Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda in the absence of Numba Mumamba.
Numba who is also Zanaco head coach is believed to have family commitments.
“Coach Numba Mumamba has some family commitment to attend during this period and would not be available hence Wedson Nyirenda will take charge of the team,” the source said.
Nyirenda has been helping assistant coach Charles Bwale drill in the continued absence of Mumamba.
“He (Nyirenda) will lead the technical bench in the absence of Numba in the game against Rwanda. He has been asked to lead the bench and make sure the team produces a positive result,” the source said.
Meanwhile, Zambia under-20 striker Francisco Mwepu says the friendly against South Africa will be good preparation for the team ahead of the first-leg qualifier away to Rwanda.
Mwepu said said although it was just a friendly, winning the practice match against South Africa would be a good morale booster for the team.
“Everyone is working hard in the team so that we produce a positive result in Rwanda before playing the return fixture here at home. We just have to remain focused and continue putting in the effort in what we are doing,” Mwepu said.
Captain Prince Mumba said the team was ready for the game against Rwanda, saying morale in the team was high and every player was working hard to meet the expectations of the coaches.
“Expectations from Zambians are very high for us and we cannot disappoint them. We have to protect what our brothers won by qualifying and defending the trophy. Our first target is to qualify then look at how we can get to the finals,” Mumba said.
The travelling party to Rwanda comprises of goalkeepers, Prince Bwalya (Green Buffaloes) and Flobby Mashakalati (Circuit City).
Defenders: Benson Kolala, Ponsirio Kapampa, Jonathan Kapelembe, Kingsley Hakwiya, Christopher Katongo and Justin Mwanza.
Midfielders: Obino Chisala, Muma Mumba, Harry Milanzi, Prince Mumba, Thomas Zulu, Chanda Mukuka, Albert Kangwanda and Lifumpa Mandwe.
Strikers: James Chilimina, Paul Mwachisema, Lameck Banda, MartinNjobvu, Mwiya Malumo and Francisco Mwepu.