Follow and learn from AFCON tournament-Chamanga,Kakonje

Chansa Kunda-Players from the 2012 AFCON winning sqaud have implored the current crop of players attached to the National team to keenly follow proceedings and take critical lessons from the 2021 show piece that kicks off next week.

Former Chipolopolo striker JAMES CHAMANGA and Goal Keeper KALILILO KAKONJE say both players and technical staff have a lot to learn from the 33rd AFCON edition despite not taking part.

Zambia failed to Qualify to the 2021 Cameroon Africa Cup of Nations tournament that will see 23 teams fight for the title against defending Champions Algeria from the 9th of January to the 6th February 2022.

And, CHAMANGA says it is heart breaking to have a country of Zambia’s pedigree miss out on three consecutive editions of the AFCON.

He says the 2012 crop laid a strong foundation for future teams by bringing the trophy home adding that it is time young players become more aggressive in their approach towards national duty.

The Red Arrows goal poacher told ZNBC Sports News in an interview that the young generation should take leaf from the old and practice high levels of discipline on and off the field.

CHAMANGA has further maintained his stance on not featuring for the national team, stating that the country needs players who can offer a long life span to the squad.

And, KAKONJE said missing out on any edition of the AFCON is a disadvantage to the players as it robs them of exposure and opportunity to be seen by international scouts.

He said playing at the AFCON which is the biggest showpiece on the continent must be every player’s target and dream.

KAKONJE who is Goalkeeper Coach at Red Arrows Football Club said missing out on the past three editions is a disadvantage to young players like PATSON DAKA, ENOCK MWEPU, FASHION SAKALA among others.

He however said Zambia is not short of talent and that a multi sectoral approach must be put in place if the team should regain it’s dominance .

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