Kanyemba explains Johnson, Mukoma absence

Zambia Under-17 women’s head coach Carol Kanyemba says her squad is focused and determined as they prepare for the FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup, where they will face Japan, New Zealand, and Paraguay in the group stage.

Speaking after Wednesday’s training session, Kanyemba revealed that some players arrived in camp with minor injuries but remained optimistic:

“Some of the girls, unfortunately, came with injuries from their clubs, but we’re managing them. It’s our prayer that by the end of this week, most will recover so we can start working on team tactics and solidify our style of play.”

Kanyemba confirmed that Aston Villa academy forward Jessica Johnson will not feature after her club declined to release her, while another regular, Ruth Mukoma, missed out due to poor fitness and lack of game time.

“We select players based on current performance and form, not just names. Unfortunately, the U-17 tournament isn’t part of the FIFA window, so we sometimes lose players to their clubs… As for Ruth Mukoma, she is currently not training with her team, ZESCO Ndola Girls, so meaning she is not in form, that’s why was not available for selection this time.”

Looking ahead to their group, Kanyemba acknowledged the strength of all three opponents but remains confident Zambia can compete.

“Every team is coming to compete, not participate. Meeting Japan again will be tough—they’re a strong side with all the facilities—but we’re ready to fight.”

She urged her players to draw inspiration from Saudi Arabia’s shock win over Argentina at the 2022 men’s World Cup: “We take a leap from Saudi Arabia when they beat Argentina. With the right attitude, determination, and tactics, we can beat any team. Our opponents have two legs just like us.”

The Copper Princesses begin their campaign on 19 October against Paraguay at 21:00.