Latest news with #COSAFAU-20Championship
CAF
28-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Zambia U20 Profile: Young Chipolopolo target second title in Egypt
Zambia's Young Chipolopolo arrive at the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025 with a mix of tradition, talent, and ambition. As former champions of the competition in 2017 and runners-up in 2013, they have the pedigree to dream big once again. Placed in a competitive Group A alongside Egypt, South Africa, Tanzania, and Sierra Leone, Zambia will be tested from the outset. But under the guidance of experienced coach Boyd Mulwanda, the Southern African side is ready to rise to the challenge. Below is the full profile of the Zambia U20 team: ZAMBIA Zambia's U-20 Men's National Team, known as the Young Chipolopolo, enters the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025 with a clear aim: to build on their impressive regional form and secure a strong showing at the continental tournament. Having previously won the competition in 2017, Zambia has a legacy to uphold. HOW THEY QUALIFIED Zambia qualified for the competition through the COSAFA U-20 Championship, where they delivered a series of commanding performances. Despite a loss to Angola in the opening match, Zambia rebounded with impressive victories, including a dramatic penalty shootout win over Zimbabwe in the semi-finals. Their ability to bounce back and overcome adversity demonstrates their resilience and fighting spirit. HISTORY IN THE TOTALENERGIES CAF U-20 AFCON Zambia is one of the most successful teams in the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, having won the competition in 2017 and finishing as runners-up in 2013. Their strong history in the tournament gives them confidence as they aim to challenge for another title in 2025. Zambia's rich youth football tradition has consistently produced top-tier talent, and they will be looking to make another strong impact at the continental stage. KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH Emmanuel Mwanza (Striker) – A key figure in Zambia's TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON campaign, Mwanza is an exciting talent. His physicality, speed, and goal-scoring ability make him a constant threat in the final third. Levison Banda (Goalkeeper) – Banda, who was part of the 2023 U-20 AFCON squad, is known for his excellent shot-stopping abilities and composure under pressure. His experience will be vital in leading the team from the back. Mathews Banda (Defender) – A reliable defender, Banda's leadership and defensive capabilities will be crucial in ensuring Zambia remains solid at the back throughout the tournament. COACH AND TACTICAL APPROACH Zambia's coach, Boyd Mulwanda, brings a wealth of experience and tactical know-how to the team. Known for their high-energy pressing game, the Young Chipolopolo's style is centred on fluid attacking play and quick transitions. Their defensive organization and ability to exploit spaces on the counter will be key to their success in the tournament. TOURNAMENT AMBITIONS AND GROUP ANALYSIS Zambia is placed in Group A, alongside neighbours South Africa, hosts and three-time champions Egypt, Tanzania as well as Sierra Leonne. With a strong squad and a rich history in the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Zambia will be looking to progress from the group stage and challenge for a place in the knockout rounds. The Young Chipolopolo's experience and attacking depth give them a good chance of making a deep run in the competition.
CAF
27-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
South Africa U20 Profile: Amajita aim high after COSAFA U-20 triumph
South Africa's U-20 national team, Amajita, arrive at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025 with renewed belief and momentum after conquering the COSAFA region. Their unbeaten run and title-winning display at the COSAFA U-20 Championship underlined the team's defensive solidity and attacking firepower. Coach Raymond Mdaka's side will now be looking to replicate that success on the continental stage. With a blend of homegrown rising stars and tactical discipline, Amajita are aiming to go further than ever before at this year's tournament in Egypt. Below is the full profile of the South Africa U20 team: SOUTH AFRICA South Africa's U-20 team, Amajita, enters the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations with a strong sense of confidence following an outstanding campaign at the COSAFA U-20 Championship. After lifting their first COSAFA U-20 Championship crown in four years, Amajita are now focused on continuing their form in Côte d'Ivoire. HOW THEY QUALIFIED South Africa's qualification for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025 came with an emphatic performance at the COSAFA U-20 Championship. Amajita went unbeaten throughout the tournament, securing five wins and keeping five clean sheets. Their dominant performances included a 2-0 victory over Zambia in the final, where goals from Shandre Campbell and Jody Ah Shene sealed the title. Amajita's high defensive standards and clinical attacking play were key to their success, with Campbell being named Player of the Tournament, while Ashene won the Golden Boot for his four goals. HISTORY IN THE TOTALENERGIES CAF U-20 AFCON This will be South Africa's fifth appearance at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, with their best finish being a semi-final spot in 1997. Amajita's solid defensive record in the COSAFA tournament has bolstered their reputation, and they are hoping to make a deep run in the tournament and challenge for a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup. KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH Kutlwano Lethlaku – The Mamelodi Sundowns right winger has made his breakthrough season with The Brazilians this campaign and has already left his mark. He has pace, skill on the ball and an eye for goal. Jody Ah Shene – The tournament's top scorer with four goals, Ashene has the pace and technical ability to trouble any defense. His goal-scoring form will be crucial in South Africa's bid for success. Fletcher Smythe-Lowe – The Golden Glove winner at the COSAFA Championship, Smythe-Lowe's solid performances between the posts were key to South Africa's success. His shot-stopping ability and leadership will be crucial at the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025. COACH AND TACTICAL APPROACH Under coach Raymond Mdaka, Amajita's approach is built on a solid defensive structure, adaptability, and counter-attacking play. Mdaka has emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline at the back while being clinical in attack. The use of versatile formations and player rotations allows Amajita to adapt to various situations and high-stakes games. With a solid defense and potent attackers, Amajita are one of the teams to watch at the finals. TOURNAMENT AMBITIONS AND GROUP ANALYSIS Amajita have been drawn into a challenging Group A, where they will face hosts and three-time winners Egypt, along with local rivals Zambia, Sierra Leone as well as Tanzania. With a strong squad and a winning mentality, Amajita will look to advance from the group stage and go all the way this time around.
