CALEDONIA COACH HAILS ZAMBIA
… Leonard impressed by junior Chipolopolo’s pace and technical ability ahead of the FIFA U17 World Cup
By Cecilia Nayame
NEW Caledonia Under-17 national team coach Lopez Leonard has tipped Zambia to go far at the upcoming FIFA17 World Cup in Qatar, saying the Junior Chipolopolo have the quality to “conquer the world.”
Speaking after his side’s 0-3 defeat to Zambia in an international friendly played on Wednesday, Leonard said he was impressed by the Zambia’s technical ability, pace and teamwork.
“I feel the team can qualify to the next stage of the competition. From what I have seen, Zambia is a strong team and he players are technical and quick on the ball, which a good thing is going into such a tournament,” he said.
Leonard described Zambia as the best side in Group H, which also features Brazil, Honduras and Indonesia.
“They are the best team in that group. I believe they will advance beyond the group stage. We saw their quality even before we played them,” he said.
Leonard wished the Junior Chipolopolo the best of luck ahead of the global showpiece.
“The team will be great at the tournament. We wish them good luck… see you in Qatar,” he said.
Leonard also thanked Zambia for the friendly encounter, saying it provided his team with valuable exposure as they prepare for the World Cup.
“We are a small island nation, so it was a great opportunity for us to play a big team like Zambia. We will keep working hard and do our best to make our country proud,” he said.
New Caledonia have been drawn in Group C alongside Portugal, Japan and Morocco.
“We know it won’t be easy for us, but we’ll go there, learn, and come back stronger,” Leonard said.
The FIFA U17 World Cup runs from November 3 to 17 in Qatar.
