Zambia: Msiska Shuffles Pack

17 June 2011

Zambia Under-23 soccer team coach Lucky Msiska has named a high-powered 18-man squad ahead of tomorrow’s London 2012 Olympic Games qualifying match against Algeria set for Nchanga Stadium in Chingola.

However, there is no room for no-show Switzerland-based striker Emmanuel Mayuka and Democratic Republic of Congo-based defender, Stopilla Sunzu Msiska has drafted in his final squad five players that include striker Venacious Mapande of Egypt outfit Arab Contractors and has dropped four players, who made the Algiers trip.

The five were not part of the team that tumbled 3-0 in the first leg in Algiers a fortnight ago.

Those dropped to pave way for Mapande, defenders Emmanuel Mbola, Christopher Munthali, midfielder Justin Zulu and striker Rodger Kola are defender Gift Sakuwaha, Stephen Kabamba, midfielder Simon Chilupe and striker Lewis Macha who were part of the team in Algiers.

Others left out from the team are Red Arrows midfielder Bruce Musakanya and Nkana goalkeeper Lennon Muma, who both joined the team at the weekend.

Assistant coach, Osward Mutapa junior said in an interview at Plot 35 Lodge in Kitwe yesterday, soon after unveiling the team that the players left out of the game should not lose hope saying they would be considered in future assignments.

“Even those that we have left out, it doesn’t mean that they have been thrown out completely, they are still part of the team, it is just the numbers because we only need 18 players for the game,” Mutapa said.

Msiska said the arrival of Mapande, who joined the team just before midnight on Wednesday, was a big boost to junior Chipolopolo and he was confident that the former Chambishi and Zanaco player would add necessary firepower to the team.

“We are happy that he is here especially that Mayuka will not be with us. He is a good player and I have confidence in him that he will help the team. His arrival is definitely a boost to the team,” Msiska said.

Msiska, who played for Zambia at the Seoul 1988 Olympic Games said, even the 2-1 triumph the team recorded over Premier Division side Nchanga Rangers on Wednesday in a training match, was a major boost.

“It (win against Rangers) is good for the confidence. It is going to make a big difference to the team. I am very confident that the boys will do well, we are ready and all we need is that extra support from the soccer fans,” he said.

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