President Lungu commends Zambia under-20 for gallant fight, says they are heroes because of their extraordinary enduring spirit and unity of purpose

President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has commended the Zambia Under-20 Soccer team for putting up a gallant fight at the ongoing Under-20 FIFA World Cup in South Korea which saw them reach the quarter finals. 

The President says although the Juniour Chipolopolo lost Monday’s quarter final encounter against Italy, played at Suwon World Cup stadium, they are still heroes because of their extraordinary enduring spirit and unity of purpose they exhibited throughout the tournament, which is a great inspiration to the entire nation. 

The President has said the young team has taught the entire nation a myriad of lessons and particularly the importance of rising above self and embracing unity of purpose in every aspect. 

President Lungu says the Juniour Chipolopolo has made the entire nation proud by putting Zambia on the World map and representing Africa very well hence the need for the entire nation to rally behind the team. 

The President says the Under-20 should be nurtured into a formidable senior team because they have a bright future ahead of them. 

“Well done boys. You have done us proud. There are moments like this when you have done everything to win but the fortunes just favour your opponent. I have hope that we are on course towards the creation of a formidable senior national team from this crop of young players. 

“The genius of this young team lies in their extraordinary fighting spirit and unity of purpose. Their extraordinary enduring spirit is a great inspiration to the entire nation. We salute their achievements at the World Cup. On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Zambia, and indeed on my own behalf, l wish them the very best in future assignments,” said the President.