MUKUKA HOPEFUL AFTER NATIONAL TEAM OUTING

ZESCO United attacking midfielder Chanda Mukuka has expressed happiness following his recent North African outing with the Zambia National Team squad that is preparing for the 2023 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup.

Last week, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) organized two international friendly matches against Kuwait and Morocco U23 side as part of ongoing preparations for the upcoming Southern African most prized competition.

The locally assembled side which was led by Head Coach Mumamba Numba, featured the ZESCO United midfield genius.

Mukuka who played in both matches has described the outing as a success despite losing to Kuwait 3-0 and Morocco 3-1.

“I am extremely honoured to play for the National Team and represent my country because this is what every player wants. This is a different level that entails that I must work extra hard by pushing myself more in training and games.

“The friendlies were very tough because the opponents were very good. However, it was a great experience for me and my teammates. It was a beautiful feeling to play at the highest level of the game,” he said.

The attacking midfielder who worked closely with Numba at United when the latter was head coach of the club played down any suggestions of an ease entrance into the squad.

“I am very excited with the opportunity to work with him at National Team level especially that we worked together when he was coach at ZESCO United. It is an amazing feeling because he knows my strengths and weaknesses. However, I don’t think this fact automatically wins me a place in the National Team. I will need to justify why I should be picked which is through hard work in training,” Mukuka added.

Zambia will be hoping to defend the 2023 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup which they won in last year’s edition.

Author: Desmond Katongo