Factors That May Work Against Zambia U-20 Team in Korea 2017 Fifa U-20 World Cup

Based on what i have seen with Nigeria Youth Teams over the years,Below are the factors that may affect Zambia who are the reigning Caf U-20 Champions.

THE HOME SUPPORT : It should be said that Zambians came out in their Numbers to Support the team and it played a major role in the whitewash of teams especially during the group stage. I am not disputing or saying they were not the best team but we must give credit to the supporters most especially President Edgar Lungu and it will be great to see how the team will perform on a neutral ground.

PLAYERS EGO : It is good to have positive vibes and confidence but we must admit that success at youth competitions does not guarantee a successful football career while this Afcon Success will be the highlight of the career of some of the players just like what happened to many Nigeria youth players in the past because they allowed small fame get into their head as many will be chasing women and attending parties instead preparing physically and mentally for reality.

A Youth Player will always be a prospect until he deliver at the top level before he could be tagged Superstar, World class e.t.c.

This Afcon success has already opened the door of club offers for many of the players but the players must not settle for less as many clubs are never convinced by Afcon performances which will make them request for the players to come for trials at same period they should be in the National team camp getting set for World Youth Championship thereby making them lose concentration.

CAMPING : The weather is a big factor but the team must also play quality friendlies especially against similar teams in their Group. England and Korea camp bases are good enough for Zambia as long as they play as many matches as possible.

AGE CONTROVERSY : People will make the age of the players topics in Zambia, across Africa, World Cup Oppositions and everywhere especially if they perform well in their group.
Fifa may carry out some crazy investigations based on popular demand but the players must stay firm,Coaches and Psychologist must be ontop of their game while FAZ must ensure the players have concrete and valid credentials.

COACHING SKILL : This has to do with the ability of  Coach Beston Chambeshi in switching tactics against several oppositions on the World stage which will further expose his fluxes and strength. Africa football sometimes is all about physicality while World football is another level.

INJECTION OF NEW PLAYERS : There will be calls for some new players to be injected into the team from several quarters which may destroy the team if care is not taken.
Physical development is almost the same at U-20 level for all the teams because many of them are already professionals while stamina may determine the conqueror because of the number of games and we can not undermine squad depth. Zambia have the chance to shock the world as underdog and it is an opportunity they must grab with both hands.

Go Chipolopolo !
Go and Bring the Trophy Home !!
Africa love you !!!

Photo Credit : Faz,Mwape Fostina Mulenga