| By FAZ Media|
Chipolopolo coach George Lwandamina says all the teams in Group I of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have a chance but preparations will be the real difference.
Reacting to the draws that have placed the Chipolopolo alongside two-time African Algeria champions Algeria, Togo and Burundi, Lwandamina said Zambia had players who could compete with the best on the continent.
“Draws are drawn and not pointed. So, it means that we all have chance. It all goes about preparation,” says Lwandamina.
“The team that will prepare adequately, I am sure that’s the team that will pose threat to us, if that is, we don’t prepare well.”
He has urged his players to be humble but focused when the qualifiers kick off in September.
“They have to remove pride and embrace one Zambia. We only have Zambia as our country. So, we have to fight for our mother Zambia.”
The veteran trainer says good preparations will determine the Chipolopolo’s course in the qualifiers.
“We have players who can compete. What is just important is how much preparation will be given to the team.”
He has urged the public to rally behind the team to give them an extra push to qualify for the 20th AFCON edition.
“We are all Zambians and we only have one Zambia. So, everyone should rally behind the team. I am sure selections cannot please everybody. But we have to push in one direction. Whether happy, unhappy, we are all Zambians,” Lwandamina said.
Zambia has been drawn in Group I for the qualifiers for the PAMOJA 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Top two teams in each group will qualify for the Total Energies AFCON Pamoja 2027 while groups where any of the host nations appear will have to battle for one slot.
According to the roadmap the first two games will be played in the FIFA International Window from 21 September-6 October 2026. Matchdays 3 & 4 will be played 9-17 November 2026 and the final Matchdays 5 & 6 from 22-30 March 2027.
The final tournament will be played from 19 June to 17 July 2027 and will be co-hosted by three East African countries namely Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
