Give It Your All’: Tembo Motivates Zambia U-17 Before COSAFA Battle

Zambia’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, General Wilson Tembo (Rtd), this morning visited the Zambia Under-17 national team at their hotel in Harare, offering encouragement ahead of their COSAFA Championship opener against South Africa.

The defending champions begin their title defence this afternoon at 15:00 against the Amajimbos at Ngoni Stadium, with Group B also featuring Madagascar and Malawi. The regional tournament will determine three qualifiers for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, which doubles as the pathway to the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

Addressing the Junior Chipolopolo, Ambassador Tembo reminded the young squad of the pride and expectations they carry on behalf of Zambians back home.

“You represent the future of Zambian football,” he said. “Currently, as we are all aware, the senior team is not doing very well. The country is behind you. All of us here, and a sizable population of Zambians living in Zimbabwe, will come to give you that moral support.”

Tembo urged teamwork and selflessness on the pitch.

“As football is a team sport, you don’t work alone individually on the pitch. Don’t be selfish, but know that you are one individual playing for the benefit of the entire team. Work together, support each other, and give it your all,” he said.

The envoy assured the players that the embassy stands ready to address any logistical issues during their stay. He also emphasized that the Zambian community in Harare would rally behind them to create a home-like atmosphere in Zimbabwe.

With South Africa expected to be one of their toughest group-stage opponents, Zambia will be aiming for a strong start as they seek to retain their COSAFA crown.