Chipolopolo coach George Lwandamina has challenged his players to bring an “element of madness” into Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group I qualifier against Burundi as Zambia seek a crucial victory.
Speaking at Thursday’s pre-match press conference in Ndola, Lwandamina acknowledged that Burundi would present a difficult challenge but insisted that his side was prepared for the encounter.
“It won’t be an easy game, but what I have asked of my players is the element of madness that will give us the edge,” he said.
The Chipolopolo coach also backed the players called up to replace the injured members of his squad, describing their inclusion as an opportunity to prove themselves.
Zambia have been hit by injuries to several key players, including Patson Daka, Lameck Banda, Gamphani Lungu and Kingstone Mutandwa.
Edward Chilufya, Prince Mumba and Derrick Bulaya have been brought into the squad as replacements.
Lwandamina, however, played down concerns over the absentees, insisting that the incoming players have been working alongside the established members of the squad and understand what is expected of them.
“Football is a physical game; there are injuries, but we are not short of replacements. I am sure those who have been brought in have been doing well and working very hard,” he said.
“It is an opportunity for them, but I have to rely on the other players. These players we are bringing in have been feeding from the same pot with those who are injured, so I doubt if we have to bring something else. It is the same pot.”
The former ZESCO United coach added that his players understood the importance of the encounter and were ready for the challenge.
“We have this game; it will give us the perimeter. We are ready for this game and the players are ready for the challenge. They know what is at stake. We just have to wait for the game,” he said.
Zambia host Burundi at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Friday, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 CAT.
The Chipolopolo head into the encounter third in Group I on three points, level with Togo, while Algeria lead the standings with four points. Burundi are bottom with one point.
