Debutant Aime Mabika has urged his teammates to build on the 3-1 win over Congo.
The 6 ft 6 tall defender impressed on his debut as he helped Zambia to victory over the West African country in Turkey.
“For myself, I felt happy and comfortable with the team. We played well I thought, good result and now we should build on that,” the Inter Miami defender said.
“I felt good. Obviously international debut as well. My first time playing international football. The level being what it is. It is high,” he continued.
The Lusaka born, who spent his formative years in the Zambian capital city was also impressed with his teammates.
“I thought the team did well considering the circumstance,” the 23 year old said
“And for myself, I can say I feel very happy and the most important thing is we were able to get the win.
Although he has to wait for June when the Ivory Coast 2023 African Cup of Nations qualifiers start for him to earn his competitive debut, Mabika will cherish this one too.
“Off course it makes the debut that much sweater.
On his central defence pairing with Scotland based Frankie Musonda, the towering defender was happy with how things went.
“It can always be tough playing with new players for the first time but especially in central defence because you know that’s right in front of goal. Any mistake can cost you.
“But for me and Frankie we just said before the game that ‘lets just talk a lot and help each other.
“And If we do that then we will be okay. It probably went a little bit later than what some people might have expected but with a lot of talk we were able to help each.
“Frankie and me were on the same page together with the other two defenders.
Zambia play Benin on Sunday.
I watched the match for about 20 minutes you were well organized and we’ll positioned. We can confidently confirm that we moving in the right direction