Mbesuma’s Son Named In U17 AFCON Squad

Zambia U17 head coach Ian Bakala has named Linker Mbesuma in his final 24-man squad for the upcoming U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Algeria.

More than 50% of the squad that won the U17 Cosafa Cup title ahead of South Africa – who they are in Group B with at AFCON – has been retained.

Mbesuma, currently on the books of Jomo Cosmos, is the son of Premier Soccer League legend and 2012 AFCON winner Collins Mbesuma.

The goal will undoubtedly be a last-four spot, which secures a place at the U20 FIFA World Cup later this year.

The Young Chipolopolo will come up with Nigeria on 30 April before a crunch fixture against South Africa on 3 May.

Bakala’s side will wrap up the Group against one of the tournament favourites Morocco on 6 May.

Zambia U17 squad in full:

Goalkeepers: Shadreck Kalyati (Chainda Bombers), Anthony Matafwali (Shamuel Academy), Hendrix Kanyungulu (Kafue Celtic)

Defenders: Aaron Simpasa (Kafue Celtic), Chimuka Lweendo (Atletico), David Hamansenya (Shamuel), Milimo Nalumango (DFIB Germany), Josiah Kabandula (Young Napsa Stars), Jonathan Kaliminia (Young Kafue Celtic), Sekanji Siame (Konkola Blades), Charles Kampamba (Sate Sate Academy)

Midfielders: Samson Malaya, Joseph Liteta (both Atletico), Bunonge Bunonge (Nangweshi Pirates), Obvious Mwaliteta Junior (Kabs Academy), Aaron Mbemba Phiri (Kafue Celtic), Stanley Nyamikwe (Pataaki), James Sibeene (Football Chance)

Forwards: Emmanuel Mwanza (Kafue Celtic), Luketekelo Kapowa (Mokved),Marcel Zimba (Atletico), Lineker Mbesuma (Jomo Cosmos-RSA), Andrew Phiri (Game On FC), Josim Sikazwe (Kanyama Lions)