Junior Chipolopolo Land Home After Historic FIFA U-15 Tier B World Cup Win

Zambia’s victorious U-15 Men’s National Team, the Junior Chipolopolo, have returned home to a warm reception after making history by winning the inaugural FIFA Under-15 Tier B World Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The young champions arrived at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka at 08h30 on Sunday, where they were welcomed by officials from the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) and the National Sports Council of Zambia.

Lusaka Province FAZ Chairperson Jordan Maliti, representing FAZ President Keith Mweemba, congratulated the players on their achievement and urged them to remain disciplined as they continue developing their football careers.

Maliti described the team as trailblazers whose historic success had set an example for other young footballers to follow.

“On behalf of the FAZ President, who you were with; he already congratulated you, I would like to re – emphasize his words. You have made us proud. Now go back to your clubs; we want to see you there so that you progress from there.” Maliti said.

Meanwhile, Deputy FAZ General Secretary Iva Lengwe, speaking on behalf of General Secretary Charles Chakatazia, praised the players and technical bench for their commitment throughout the tournament.

Lengwe reminded the youngsters that their achievement should serve as a foundation for greater ambitions rather than the end of their journey.

“As you celebrate this achievement this is not your destination it is foundation upon which great things must be built. Remain humble, focused and hungry for success.” Lengwe said.

He also encouraged the players to return to their respective clubs and remain focused, warning them against distractions as their impressive performances could attract attention from other teams.

National Sports Council of Zambia Administrative Officer Brian Sapi, representing Chief Executive Officer Sombwa Munsansa, also welcomed the team, describing their achievement as an inspiration to young athletes across the country.

“Claiming the tier B title is a magnificent achievement. You have drawn inspiration to many young athletes across the country. It’s a testament of the discipline that you have shown, the teamwork, the hard work,” Sapi said.

Head coach Brian Kunsanama expressed happiness with the reception, saying the tournament had provided the players with valuable international exposure and an opportunity to test themselves against different opponents. He added that the youngsters had represented Zambia with determination and deserved recognition for their efforts.

Zambia’s journey to the Tier B crown featured victories over Montserrat (13-0), Comoros (3-2), England (3-2), Niger (2-0), Slovakia (3-1), Senegal (4-3) and Portugal (5-2) in the final.

The tournament brought together 189 teams from six confederations, divided into 32 groups. Group winners advanced to Tier A, while runners-up competed in Tier B, with the competition extending through Tier F to give all participating teams an opportunity to play until the final day.

Matches were played in an eight-a-side format, consisting of two 20-minute halves.

The Junior Chipolopolo’s return marks the homecoming of a team whose achievement has given Zambian football another milestone at youth level, with the focus now shifting to nurturing the players as they progress through their careers.