Zambia U17 Profile
Zambia enters the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations with high expectations after an impressive qualifying campaign.
The Young Chipolopolo have long been a force in Southern African youth football and will be looking to translate that regional dominance onto the continental stage.
With a squad full of attacking talent and a coach who prioritizes high-tempo football, Zambia is aiming to make history by progressing beyond the group stage for the first time and securing a FIFA U-17 World Cup berth.
How They Qualified
Zambia secured their place at the 2025 U-17 AFCON by winning the COSAFA U-17 Championship, delivering dominant performances throughout the competition.
They capped off their campaign with a convincing victory over Angola in the final, demonstrating both attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Their route to the title was marked by several emphatic victories, including an 8-0 demolition of Namibia and a 5-1 thrashing of Zimbabwe.
In the semi-finals, they overcame a strong South African side before clinching the title against Angola, securing their spot at the continental tournament.
Star striker Abel Nyirongo emerged as the tournament’s top scorer, netting seven goals, including a hat-trick against Zimbabwe.
Gabriel Phiri and Mapalo Simute also played pivotal roles, each contributing three goals during the championship.
History in the U-17 AFCON
Zambia has had limited success at the U-17 AFCON, with only two previous appearances—in 2015 and 2023. On both occasions, they failed to progress beyond the group stage, highlighting the challenge they face at this level.
Despite their struggles on the continental stage, Zambia remains the most successful team in COSAFA U-17 history, having won the regional championship four times.
Their ability to produce top-tier talent is evident, with former Leicester City forward Patson Daka being a notable graduate of their U-17 setup.
Key Players to Watch
- Abel Nyirongo (Forward) – A natural goal scorer, Nyirongo was the top marksman in the COSAFA U-17 Championship, scoring seven goals, including a hat-trick against Zimbabwe. His sharp finishing and ability to exploit spaces make him Zambia’s most lethal attacking weapon.
- Mapalo Simute (Midfielder) – A versatile playmaker, Simute was named the MVP of the COSAFA tournament. His technical brilliance, composure under pressure, and eye for a killer pass make him crucial to Zambia’s offensive setup.
- Nthasilwe Malupande (Midfielder) – A dynamic central midfielder, Malupande excels in linking defense with attack. His ability to control the tempo of the game will be vital as Zambia navigates tough group-stage battles.
Coach & Tactical Approach
The Young Chipolopolo are led by Ian Bakala, who also managed the team in the 2023 U-17 AFCON, where they fell short in the group stage.
Bakala’s philosophy is built on free-flowing attacking football, quick transitions while defensive compactness prevents exposure at the back.
Zambia’s ability to dominate possession and execute rapid counterattacks will be key to their success in this tournament.
Tournament Expectations & Group Analysis
Zambia has been drawn into a competitive yet winnable Group A, where they will face:
- Morocco (Hosts) – A technically gifted side playing on home soil, making them the toughest challenge in the group.
- Uganda – A fast-improving East African team known for their structured play and strong team spirit.
- Tanzania – A familiar COSAFA rival, bringing a similar playing style and competitive intensity.
With a squad rich in attacking depth and experience in high-pressure matches, Zambia’s primary goal will be to advance beyond the group stage for the first time.
If they can harness their goal-scoring prowess while maintaining defensive discipline, the Young Chipolopolo have the potential to make a deep run and challenge for World Cup qualification.