By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Red Arrows head coach Chisi Mbewe says his side are ready to seize another opportunity on the continental stage when they host Madagascar’s RC Rouge today in the CAF Confederation Cup First Preliminary round first leg tie at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
Mbewe says the Airmen are highly motivated to represent both the Zambia Air Force and the country, and believes preparations for the competition have gone well.
“Another great opportunity and chance for us to participate in the Confederation Cup. I think we’ve prepared so well. The team looks ready and set going into this tournament. We know what is at stake. We are representing the Air Force, but also Zambia as a nation,” Mbewe said.
The coach says preparations were further boosted by a recent international friendly against Tanzanian giants Simba SC, which provided the team with valuable match practice ahead of the continental campaign.
Mbewe has challenged his players to work hard and secure a positive result at home as they seek to advance to the next stage.
“We just need to fight, work extra hard and ensure that we get to the next stage,” he said.
However, Mbewe expects a difficult encounter against RC Rouge and has warned his players against underestimating their opponents.
“It’s not a weak team. In football, there’s no weak team. For our opponents to qualify for this competition, it means they are a good side.”
The Red Arrows coach describes RC Rouge as a youthful and tactically disciplined side, but believes his team’s research has provided them with an insight into what to expect.
“It’s going to be an interesting and tricky game. It’s a youthful side. We’ve done our research on our opponents. It’s a very good side. The oldest is about 25 years and it’s a very tactical team,” he said.
Mbewe is also encouraged by the team’s attacking improvement, particularly after creating several chances and scoring twice in their previous outing.
The coach admits the departure of striker Albert Kangwanda has left a void, but says the club has brought in new players who are gradually settling into the squad.
“We miss him, but we’ve moved on. We have a couple of players that we’ve recruited in the team. They are settling so well. When they settle fully, we will start seeing goals coming,” Mbewe said.
The Red Arrows coach says previous disappointments in continental competitions will not affect the team, with those experiences instead serving as lessons as they look to make progress this time around.
Red Arrows host RC Rouge today at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 hours.
