As Zambia gears up for its debut in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 on Wednesday, January 17, optimism and support are pouring in from an esteemed source—former national team striker Jacob Mulenga. The seasoned player, a familiar face in the Zambian football scene, expressed his confidence in the Chipolopolos’ potential in a recent podcast discussion.
With just a day remaining before the crucial clash against DR Congo, Mulenga shared his insights into Zambia’s prospects in the highly anticipated continental tournament.
Reflecting on the team’s recent achievements and the collective experience gained by the younger players, Mulenga conveyed his expectations for a successful campaign.
“Zambia is going to go quite far. I expect them to be successful because they have had a good period. We missed the last Africa Cup. But now, most of the young people have won the U20 Africa Cup.
Who went to the World Cup and did well. Most of them graduated from it. So we had a transition period and they did well. So, I expect them to do well. We have a good team,” asserted Mulenga.
The former striker, who represented Zambia with distinction, not only sees Zambia as a strong contender in AFCON 2023 but also identifies them among the favorites to clinch the title in Ivory Coast.
Offering insights into the unique dynamics of African football, Mulenga highlighted the unpredictability and competitiveness inherent in the tournament.
“We are one of the favorites; we have already won it. It’s a question of mentality. With World Cups, you have favorites and everything, but in African football, it’s so different. Because everyone is so athletic, so fast.
It’s a moment that changes everything. The African competition is very different. Among the big ones, there are obviously Senegal, Egypt, Nigeria, and Morocco,” he explained.
As Avram Grant’s squad steps onto the AFCON stage after nearly a decade, Mulenga’s words of encouragement and strategic insights set a positive tone for Zambia’s journey in the tournament.
The players, under the leadership of Grant, now carry the responsibility of translating this confidence into on-field success.
