Junior Chipolopolo Exit U-17 World Cup as Senior Team Prepare's For New Era under Sichone

The Junior Chipolopolo's promising World Cup debut came to an end on Friday as they fell 3-1 to Mali in the round of 32 of the U-17 FIFA World Cup.

Mali broke the deadlock shortly after half-time through Bomba, but Zambia fought back when Simote restored parity. However, two late Mali goals sealed the tie and ended Zambia's tournament run.

Despite the defeat, the young Chipolopolo can hold their heads high after a memorable debut campaign that saw them progress from their group unbeaten.

At senior level, attention now turns to Saturday's friendly against South Africa in Port Elizabeth. The match marks the beginning of a new era under Coach Moses Sichone and his revamped technical bench.

Following the South Africa clash, Zambia will face Angola on November 18th in another friendly as they build toward the Africa Cup of Nations, where they have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Mali and Comoros.