Chipolopolo coach George ‘Chicken’ Lwandamina believes the return of Kings Kangwa will provide a significant boost to Zambia ahead of Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Burundi in Bujumbura.
Kangwa is available again after serving his four-match suspension, which followed his red card during Zambia’s 3-0 defeat by Morocco at the 2025 AFCON.
Speaking after Friday’s 1-1 draw against Burundi in Ndola, Lwandamina praised the midfielder’s experience, football intelligence and ability to influence matches through individual quality.
“He’s a seasoned player. I’m sure he’s going to add value to the team. He’s a player who can turn around the game individually. He has the brains,” Lwandamina said.
The Chipolopolo coach also pointed to other players who were unavailable for the first encounter, expressing confidence that their return could make a difference in the reverse fixture.
“Definitely, we have players who didn’t play today. I’m sure they will make a difference,” he added.
Despite the disappointment of dropping two points at home, Lwandamina remained optimistic about his team’s prospects.
“It was just a bad day. I’m sure the boys will rise,” he said.
Zambia took the lead through Edward Chilufya in the second half at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, but Jean Claude Girumugisha equalised in the 82nd minute to earn Burundi a point.
The draw leaves Zambia on four points from three matches, level with Algeria, while Togo have three points and Burundi two.
Kangwa’s availability offers Lwandamina another midfield option as Zambia travel to Bujumbura for Tuesday’s return encounter, where the Chipolopolo will be targeting a victory to strengthen their qualification campaign.
