Coaches confirmation awaits OPC approval
The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture says confirmation of the new Under-20 and Under-17 national football team coaches awaits the Office of the President and Cabinet’s (OPC) approval.
The Ministry’s spokesperson Simon Mbvundula, however, confirmed that Flames legend Patrick Mabedi and Blue Eagles coach DeKlerk Msakakuona were successful during the interviews and have been recommended for Under-20 and Under-17 national teams, respectively.
Said Mbvundula: “Unofficially I can confirm that these are indeed the two coaches that were successful during the interviews.
“But the appointing authority is the OPC because of the grade C under which they will be hired, which is a high rank in the civil service.
“So, what we have done is to recommend the names to them [OPC],” he said.
Mabedi saw off fellow contenders Tione Mhone, Audillow Makonyola, Franco Ndawa, Aubrey Nankhuni, Leo Mpulula and Bob Mpinganjira for the Under-20 job while Msakakuona beat Milias Pofera-Jegwe, Trevor Kajawa and George Zulu.
Just like Flames coach Meck Mwase, the duo will be offered one-year deals.
Mabedi has immense experience, having had stints with the Flames, South African giants Kaizer Chiefs and Black Leopards as assistant coach whereas Msakakuona, who coaches TNM Super League outfit Blue Eagles FC, was in-charge of the under-17 for the past three years on temporary basis.
Msakakuona also served as Flames assistant coach alongside Gerald Phiri under Belgian coach Ronny van Geneugden. Eagles chairperson Alexander Ngwala yesterday said they have not yet started preparations for Msakakuona’s replacement.
