Nkwazi Coach Tembo Promises “Different Ball Game” in Transitional League
Nkwazi head coach Masauso Tembo believes his side is well prepared for the 2026 Transitional League and has challenged his players to target a strong finish rather than another battle against relegation.
The police-sponsored outfit recently completed a 10-day pre-season camp on the Copperbelt, using the period to build fitness, improve team chemistry and assess their new recruits through a series of friendly matches.
Nkwazi recorded two victories, three draws and one defeat during the camp.
New Signings Settling In
Tembo said the training camp was particularly valuable in helping the club’s new arrivals adapt to their teammates and the team’s style of play.
“It has been a very productive outing for us. More importantly, it allowed the new players to blend with those who were already in the squad,” Tembo said.
The coach is now expecting a much-improved Nkwazi side when competitive football begins.
“We are looking forward to showing a different kind of football this season. We don’t want to spend another campaign worrying about relegation. Our aim is to compete strongly and finish the league in a good position,” he added.
Young Players Given Opportunity
Tembo also expressed satisfaction with the club’s recruitment strategy, revealing that Nkwazi deliberately focused on bringing younger players into the squad.
“Our main objective was to bring young players into the team. So far, things are going well, and now our responsibility is to encourage them, motivate them and help them develop.”
The coach believes the youngsters can make a significant contribution if they are given the right support and guidance throughout the campaign.
Short League Presents Challenge
With the Transitional League scheduled to run from September to December, Tembo acknowledged that the compressed competition will demand greater consistency and intensity from his players.
“It won’t be easy because this is a very short league. We have to work even harder and make sure we produce strong performances from the beginning,” he said.
Nkwazi have been placed in Stream B for the 2026 Transitional League, with the club hoping their positive pre-season preparations will translate into improved results once the campaign gets underway.
