Zambia Under-20 coach Mumamba Numba says the onus is on his bench to make amends in the 2019 U20 AFCON qualifiers with the lessons learnt from their failure to defend COSAFA U20 Cup.

Zambia endured a forgettable time as hosts losing 2-0 to Uganda in their opening Group A game before drawing 0-0 with Malawi in their penultimate tie but redeemed themselves with a 2-0 win over Swaziland on Monday.

However, the win was not enough for Zambia to take them within touching distance of the semifinals after finishing 3rd in Group A on 4 points, behind Malawi and group winners Uganda who are tied on 5 points.

“Of course the boys were developing very well from day one they have been improving which is a very good sign,” Numba said.

“We are happy with what the boys have done and now trying to prepare them for our next challenge. But all we need now is players to strengthen in some positions. We still need to add players in the flanks, at right back, left back, central defence and need to do a bit of work in central midfield.”

African Under-20 champions Zambia must now qualify next year for the 2019 U20 AFCON to be hosted by Niger.