The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has once again turned to experienced local tactician George Lwandamina, appointing him as interim head coach of the Zambia national football team.
In a statement released on March 5, 2026, FAZ Acting Deputy General Secretary Iva Lengwe said the appointment forms part of adjustments to the technical bench aimed at boosting efficiency and improving the team’s overall performance.
Lwandamina will be assisted by Oswald Mutapa Jr., who is currently the head coach of Power Dynamos F.C..
The changes come after Zambia’s underwhelming showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which prompted FAZ to part ways with former head coach Wedson Sichone. Assistant coach Perry Mutapa has also been relieved of his duties.
Lengwe clarified that the restructuring only affects the positions of head coach and first assistant, while the rest of the technical team remains intact.
A Familiar Face Returns
Lwandamina’s return has sparked mixed reactions among football followers. On one hand, many see the decision as a positive step toward trusting local coaching talent. On the other, some observers note that the veteran coach is no stranger to the national team setup.
He previously led Chipolopolo between 2015 and 2016 before being succeeded by Wedson Nyirenda. His comeback therefore feels like revisiting a chapter in Zambian football history that many believed had already been closed.
Critics often argue that the country’s football leadership tends to recycle familiar figures instead of exploring fresh ideas. However, supporters say experienced local coaches deserve opportunities to guide the national team rather than relying heavily on foreign appointments.
Immediate Task Ahead
Currently in charge of Nchanga Rangers F.C., Lwandamina now faces the urgent challenge of preparing the national side for the upcoming Four-Nation Tournament scheduled for March 23–31, 2026 in Francistown.
With little time before the competition begins, the interim technical bench must quickly assemble a competitive squad combining both locally based players and those playing abroad.
Whether Lwandamina’s return will revive the roar of Chipolopolo or simply add another familiar chapter to Zambia’s football story remains to be seen. For now, fans across the country are watching closely—hopeful that experience and local knowledge might steady the team’s path forward.
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