Coach Nyirenda Aims To Exorcise Zambia’s Cosafa Ghosts After Last Year’s Early Exit

Chipolopolo COSAFA Cup coach Wedson Nyirenda, popularly known as Wada, has warned against underestimating teams like Comoros and Botswana as Zambia prepares for the regional tournament.

Speaking after Thursday’s training session, Nyirenda—who will lead the squad alongside assistants Beston Chambeshi, Perry Mutapa, Stephen Mwansa, and Chintu Kampamba—emphasized the need for focus, citing the threat posed by opponents with consistent squads.

The session was attended by FAZ president Keith Mweemba, who interacted with players and the technical bench following a 2-0 practice match win over Leopards Hill Football Club at Edwin Imboela Stadium. Titus Chansa and Kelvin Mwanza scored in the three-quarter-length friendly.

“From today’s test match, there are just a few areas to polish, but overall, the team looks sharp and hasn’t lost shape,” Nyirenda said.

The coach stressed that the squad is determined to redeem itself after last year’s early exit, stating:

“Everyone is motivated. Last year’s first-round elimination was a big concern, and we’re working hard to change that narrative this time. That’s our focus in preparation.”

Nyirenda also highlighted the danger posed by nations with smaller player pools, such as Eswatini and Lesotho, whose squads remain consistent across competitions.

“These teams use the same players in AFCON and World Cup qualifiers—they don’t have the luxury of calling Europe-based stars. If we take them lightly, we’ll be in trouble,” he cautioned.

Zambia, the tournament’s most successful team with seven titles, is in Group D alongside Botswana and Comoros. Their campaign kicks off on June 6 against Comoros before facing Botswana.

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The COSAFA Cup serves as vital preparation for Zambia’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign in August, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.