CHIPOLOPOLO IN MUST-WIN TIE
…as they face Lesotho hurdle in Afcon qualifier
ZAMBIA’s quest to break the jinx of failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nation will face another crucial test today when the Chipolopolo host Lesotho in a 2023 Group H Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
Now under the tutorage of former Chelsea and Ghana coach Avram Grant, the Chipolopolo will aim to maintain their winning streak after beating Comoros Islands in the last Group H fixture which was played at Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.
For Grant, today’s fixture against Lesotho marks the beginning of a new chapter in his coaching career after he was trusted with the Chipolopolo job in November last year.
Zambia are second in Group H with three points, one point behind group leaders Ivory Coast who have a win and a draw from their last two games.
Speaking in a pre-match press conference, Grant said his charges were ready for Lesotho despite having regrouped four days before the crucial fixture.
For Chipolopolo defender, Frankie Musonda the game against Lesotho is going to be tough but the Chipolopolo has a great team of players and coaches who can deliver the needed results.
“The game against Lesotho is going to be difficult but we definitely have a great team here and the coaching staff so there is no reason why we can’t perform well,” Musonda said.
Meanwhile, midfielder Lubambo Musonda said the Chipolopolo’s main objective is to collect maximum points against Lesotho.
Musonda urged fans to rally behind the team to inspire them to get the needed results.
Red Star Belgrade midfielder Klings Kanga said the Chipolopolo will have to show their strength to get maximum points today.
Asked if he was feeling under pressure, Kangwa said; “There is always pressure but I think I’m mature enough to know how to handle the pressure so I’m not really under pressure. I’m just here to play my game and help the team.”
Kangwa is likely to start in midfield with Clatous Chama and Emmanuel Banda while upfront Grant is spoiled for choice as he has Patson Daka, Fashion Sakala, Lameck Banda and the local duo of Joseph Phiri and Lazarus Kambole.
Between the sticks Grant may look to South Africabased ToAster Nsabata to provide cover while Frankie Musonda, Dominic Chanda, Rodrick Kabwe and Thandi Mwape may start in the back four.