🇿🇲 FULL-TIME: ALGERIA 3–1 ZAMBIA — CHIPOLopolo FRAILTIES EXPOSED
By Uncle Philip Banda
Zambia’s 3–1 defeat to Algeria has exposed several issues that need urgent attention if Chipolopolo are to compete consistently at the highest level.
1. COACHING CONCERNS
The coaching by George Lwandamina leaves much to be desired. The sooner we recognise that Chipolopolo may require a coach with the experience and stature to manage the demands of the national team, the better.
2. SUDDEN WHOLESALE CHANGES
The sudden wholesale changes to the national team are not healthy. Experienced players such as Emmanuel Banda, Cletus Chama (CCC), Kabaso Chongo, Franky Musonda and Edward Chilufya could have been retained, while new players were gradually introduced
3. MANAGEMENT NEEDS TO STEP UP
Management also needs to address the coaching structure. Having national teams without permanent coaches attached to them can create divided commitments between club and country.
4. WHAT HAPPENED TO THE PLAYING PHILOSOPHY?
Zambia appeared to struggle with possession, ball circulation and maintaining control of the game. The question now is whether the national team’s playing philosophy has been lost.
5. FORM OVER NAMES.
Some players named in the team are unattached ! So where does it leave the likes of Cletus Chota Chama that have been scoring golas for SIMBA in CAF Continental Competitions? JUST who is calling the players to the national team.
The Algeria defeat should therefore prompt serious reflection on coaching, squad transition, management structures and Zambia’s football identity.