Christopher Katongo Calls for Early Exposure of Junior Players to Different Environments for Optimal Performance Former Chipolopolo captain, Christopher Katongo, has shared his insights on how to groom and prepare junior players to perform exceptionally in major tournaments. According to Katongo, it is imperative to expose young players to different styles of play and provide them with early exposure to various environments to help them adapt and perform at their best. In his recent statement, Katongo emphasized the need for the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) and the technical bench to consider organizing friendly matches with European and Asian teams. He believes that these matches will provide young Chipolopolo players with valuable experience, enabling them to develop the tactical skills needed to excel in defense and attack. Katongo also noted that competition against formidable teams would make the boys mentally prepared for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and other similar tournaments. Former national team manager, Lisekelo Kamwambi, also shared some tips for the technical bench to help identify opponents' weaknesses. He advised the technical bench to read the opponents' mode of play within the first ten minutes of the game to develop effective strategies. Currently, the Under 17 National team is set to play against Morocco in the final group match, needing a win to qualify for the quarterfinals as the best third-place finisher. The match will commence at 21:00 hours. The Young Chipolopolo suffered back-to-back defeats against Nigeria and South Africa, losing 1-0 and 3-2, respectively. Picture file-CK11