‘Chipolopolo Motivated’

By MICHAEL MIYOBA 

FOOTBALL Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Andrew Kamanga says the Chipolopolo boys are highly motivated and hungry to write a beautiful story as Zambia begins the journey to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Zambia will begin the quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with back-to-back fixtures against Congo Brazzaville and Niger.

The Chipolopolo who regrouped yesterday in Ndola will face Congo Brazzaville on Friday at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium before heading to Marrakech for the away clash against Niger on November 21.

Kamanga said the world cup journey means a lot to the association because Zambia has yet to qualify in its 59-year history.

“The last time we were closest to qualifying the United States of America was the designated host and 2026 happens to be yet another American hosted tournament albeit with Mexico and Canada. In a way the 1994 USA near qualification could finally be fulfilled in 2026,” Kamanga said. 

Kamanga noted that; “While focusing on Friday’s match we are also logistically preparing for next Tuesday’s away match to Niger to be played in Morocco.”

The FAZ Chief appeal to the fans to fill up Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Friday to spur the boys to victory against Congo Brazzaville.

Kamanga said the association was happy with the response from the fans who have already purchased tickets which went on sale early across all Shoprite outlets.

The tickets prices for the clash against Congo Brazzaville are K50 (North and South), K150 (East Wing), K250 (West Wing) while VIP tickets are selling at K750 each.

Meanwhile, Kamanga said FAZ was determined to ensure that the Zambia national women’s team qualify for the   2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations.

The Copper Queens have a double date against Angola away next weekend before hosting the reverse fixture in the first week of December. 

Winner over two legs will qualify to the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations. 

“Our aim is to make it three times in a roll to be part of the WAFCON. The momentum for WAFCON qualification should be able to carry on next year in February when we resume the Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers,” Kamanga said.

Kambanga believes there is enough room to add more accolades to the women’s game.