He is always in our hearts – Lubambo talks about Mwepu’s absence 

Chipolopolo skipper Lubambo Musonda opened up about the absence of midfielder Enock Mwepu who started the qualifiers with the team. 

 Mwepu was forced to end his playing career prematurely after being diagnosed with a hereditary heart condition in October, 2022.

Mwepu, 25, who joined English Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion for around £20m from Red Bull Salzburg in July 2021, was taken ill while on a flight to join his national side during the international break. 

Mwepu was admitted to hospital for four days in Mali before returning to Brighton for further tests.

Lubambo says the team always carry their former captain in their hearts and are always praying for him.

The winger also opened up about the difficult journey to qualification after missing out the last three editions.

“The opening game is very important to us, we need to start well and have that good feeling,” he said. 

“It’s really a sad feeling that one of the players we started the qualifiers with is not here due a condition that is beyond our understanding. We always pray for him and carry him in our hearts. We haven’t heard if he will join us to support us but he is always with us in our hearts.”

“It’s been a great journey though rough because we did not qualify in the last three editions and it’s been a difficult time for the team. This time with the help of the coach we put in all our effort and managed to qualify. It’s a great thing for us. Everyone is happy to be here, and most of the players it’s their first time but I have been and this is my second time. We are looking forward to playing the game,” he added. 

The Chipolopolo face DR Congo tomorrow in a Group F encounter at the Laurent Pokou at 22:00 hours (Zambian Time).

Zambia won the 2012 edition and we’re runners up in 1974 and 1994 and came out third in 1982, 1990 and 1996.