Wed, 30 Aug 2017 10:07:25 +0000
By Grace Chaile Lesoesta
FOREIGN-based players Patson Daka, Brian Mwila, Emmanuel Banda and Stoppila Sunzu yesterday joined the Zambian squad preparing for the 2018 Russia World Cup qualifier against Algeria this Saturday at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.
Striker Fashion Sakala is expected to join the team today to complete the 30-member provisional squad. Assistant coach Aggrey Chiyangi confirmed the arrival of the four players’ yesterday.
Chiyangi was happy that they have almost a full team and will now focus on training. “We have a full team now and the competition is very high. All the players are focused and putting a lot of effort which is good for a team,” he said.
He said the team assembled was capable of delivering and was focused on pulling victory. “It maybe a new team but the players have shown a positive character. Our focus is to win at home,” he said.
Meanwhile FAZ President Andrew Kamanga has expressed confidence in the team assembled by the Chipolopolo technical bench.
Kamanga was happy that Wedson Nyirenda has blended in the young players and the old marshals.
“This is a good team and I am confident we can record a positive result at home. It’s a good team as it blends in the young Under-20 stars, COSAFA players and the experienced players which is important in the game against Algeria,” he said.
The FAZ chief called on the fans to turn up in numbers at the National Heroes Stadium noting that the boys needed their support to succeed.
He announced that the sale of the match tickets will kick-off today in Shoprite outlets.
He believed Zambia still had a chance to qualify to the World Cup but must win the two legged matches against Algeria to keep the hope alive.
“We cannot rule ourselves out, what is important is to work hard and win the next two games. Everything is possible in football and the boys should just remain focused,” he said.
