Coach Wedson Nyirenda Urges Chipolopolo to Aim Higher After COSAFA Cup Performance

Zambia national team coach Wedson Nyirenda has called on Chipolopolo to raise their standards and aim higher following the team’s performance at the 2024 COSAFA Cup. Speaking in an interview with FAZ Media, Nyirenda acknowledged the team’s effort but emphasized the need for stronger displays if Zambia is to reclaim its position among Africa’s top footballing nations.

Nyirenda, who led Zambia to COSAFA Cup final in 2017, commended the players for reaching the latter stages of the regional tournament but expressed concern over the quality of play and the team’s overall ambition.

“We can’t be comfortable just participating and making it to the semifinals or finals,” he said. “Zambia has a rich football history. We should be setting our sights higher and playing with greater purpose.”

The 2024 edition of the COSAFA Cup saw Zambia fall short of defending their title, a result that Nyirenda believes should serve as a wake-up call. He stressed the importance of building a consistent, competitive team that reflects Zambia’s footballing pedigree.

“What we need now is focus, tactical discipline, and the hunger to win, not just regionally, but at continental and global levels,” Nyirenda added.

His comments come at a time when fans and analysts are questioning the direction of the national team, especially with key international qualifiers approaching. Nyirenda urged the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) and the technical bench to cultivate a winning mentality and prioritize long-term development.

“We have the talent, that’s never been in doubt,” he said. “But talent alone is not enough. We need structure, strategy, and a burning desire to succeed.”

With the COSAFA Cup now behind them, Chipolopolo will shift their focus to upcoming World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, fixtures that will test the team’s resolve and readiness.