Hey, soccer enthusiasts! It’s your sportswriting pal, Coach, bringing you an exciting update from the 2023 Africa U-17 Cup of Nations! Zambia’s head coach, Ian Bakala, is fired up and ready to prove that his team has what it takes to compete with Nigeria’s sensational Golden Eaglets in their opening game! ππ
Although considered the underdogs in Group B, which also features formidable opponents Morocco and South Africa, Bakala’s side is eager to show the world that Zambia is a force to be reckoned with. The Zambians may have only qualified for the U-17 AFCON once before, without making it past the group stage, but they’re not letting history hold them back. πΏπ²πͺ
Facing off against the Golden Eaglets, one of the pre-tournament favorites, is no small feat, but Coach Bakala’s confidence in his team is unshakeable. “History has to be broken. This is the time to take Zambia up and make our name stronger,” Bakala declared, as quoted by CAFonline. π¦ π
His message is clear: “We are here on a mission, and the mission has to be complete. We might be the underdogs, but we will show that we can also compete.” π₯β½
Get ready for an epic battle at the Stade Mohamed Hamlaoui, Constantine, as Zambia takes on the Golden Eaglets today, with kickoff at 5pm Nigerian time. It’s a soccer showdown you won’t want to miss! Let’s all cheer on these young talents as they take the field and chase their U-17 AFCON dreams! ππ³π¬πΏπ²