FOOTBALL Association of Zambia (FAZ) has unveiled a new-look Under-17 men’s national team technical bench, with former Chipolopolo star Charles Musonda appointed as technical advisor, ahead of next month’s COSAFA’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Musonda, a seasoned coach with top-level technical qualifications, has been tasked with providing strategic oversight for the youth team and mentoring the under-17 coaching staff.
FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shepande said the changes were made after wide consultations with the technical wing of the association and in line with the long-term youth football strategy.
“I have high expectations that with Musonda’s expertise and guidance, the team will be well-prepared and aligned with the national football strategy,” Shepande said.
Musonda joins an experienced technical bench that includes head coach Ian Bakala, who will be temporarily replaced for the COSAFA Under-17 qualifiers in Harare by Zesco United assistant coach Emmanuel Siwale.
The rest of the bench includes Lameck Banda as first assistant, Francis Kombe as second assistant, and Martin Mwamba as goalkeeper coach.
Physical trainer Clive Hachilensa, team doctor Emmanuel Kanswe, physiotherapist Isaac Sichali, team manager Gabriel Kalembo, and equipment manager Moses Banda complete the setup.
The U17 team will participate in the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations and COSAFA Qualifiers from September 11 to 20 in Harare, Zimbabwe.
The young Chipolopolo have been drawn in Group B alongside South Africa, Malawi and Madagascar, with 12 teams competing for a place at the continental and regional competitions.
By George Musonda
Kalemba August 28, 2025
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