ZAMBIA's Minister of Youth, Sports, and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, has called for a wider selection pool for the national football team as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Nkandu urged the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) to consider standout performers from the recently concluded domestic leagues.
Speaking to the media in Lusaka this morning, Minister of youths, sports and arts Elvis Nkandu said more needs to be done in line with the selection of players by the FAZ technical team if they are to beef up team performance.
"When we were watching Absa with the President, I noticed we are not doing enough in terms of selection because when you look at Kabwe Warriors' Killian Kanguluma, I am not a coach but I was impressed with what he was doing."
"So if players like those would also be crafted into the national team, let them be tried and prove themselves, who knows? Maybe tomorrow they will be the anchors of the national team when it comes to defense"
Nkandu emphasised the need to explore talent beyond established names.
The minister also acknowledged the competitive nature of Group E, which includes, Zambia, Morocco, Niger, Tanzania, Congo, and Eritrea.
"This is a tough group," Nkandu admitted.
"I think it is important that people manage their expectations. This tournament is very competitive, especially in our group so we just have to play our cards right" he advised.
"How good it would be if our men qualified for the world Cup. I think it would be very very interesting."
Zambia currently sits behind group leaders Morocco in the qualifiers. Chipolopolo's next match is set for June 7, 2024, against Morocco.
Nkandu's comments come amidst pressure to improve Zambia's performance on the international stage.
The Chipolopolo Boys will be aiming to book a spot at the World Cup for the first time.
By Elesani Phiri
Kalemba May 21, 2024
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