Simba SC Midfielder Says Zambia Must Focus on Results Instead of Constant Rebuilding
Chipolopolo midfielder Clatous Chama has questioned the continued narrative of “building a team” within the Zambia national football setup, arguing that the national side should already be delivering results instead of repeatedly starting over.
The Simba SC star believes national team football does not provide enough time for long-term rebuilding projects, unlike club football or academy development systems.
Chama Questions Meaning of “Building”
Speaking during an appearance on ZNBC’s Sports Day programme, Chama expressed confusion over the repeated use of the phrase whenever Chipolopolo struggles to perform.
“We are in a process where I don’t clearly understand when someone uses the word ‘building’,” Chama said.
“We are talking about high-level football and this is the national team. When people say we are building, are we treating it like an academy or a club?”
The midfielder stressed that expectations at national team level are different because players only gather for short periods during international windows.
Reference to Former Coach Avram Grant
Chama also recalled lessons from former Zambia head coach Avram Grant, under whom he last featured for Chipolopolo.
According to Chama, Grant often emphasized that international football leaves little room for constant rebuilding.
“I think Coach Grant would tell you that the national team system does not give coaches enough time to always go back to the drawing board and say we are building,” Chama explained.
Calls for Progress and Results
The former ZESCO United midfielder believes Zambia should now be focusing on achieving results instead of continuing to speak about future development.
“Whenever we use the phrase that we are building, I honestly don’t understand what it means,” he added.
“The national team has existed for many years, and if we are still talking about building in 2026, then questions have to be asked.”
Pressure Continues on Chipolopolo
Chama’s comments come at a time when expectations remain high for Zambia national football team, with supporters eager to see the team consistently compete at continental and global level once again.
The debate around rebuilding versus producing immediate results continues to divide opinions among football fans and analysts in Zambia.
