Zambia Under-23 coach Chisi Mbewe has challenged his players to give everything as they look to overturn a 1-0 deficit against Burkina Faso in Sunday’s Egypt 2027 Africa Cup of Nations U23 qualifier.
The Junior Chipolopolo host Burkina Faso at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka, knowing they must win by at least two unanswered goals to secure progression to the next qualifying round.
Mbewe acknowledged the importance of the encounter, describing it as a do-or-die contest, but urged his players to remain focused rather than allow the pressure to affect their performance.
“We know what is at stake. The Burkina Faso result is water under the bridge. This is a do-or-die game. This is a game that we need to apply all our efforts,” Mbewe said.
“We have to score two unanswered goals to progress to the next round. We shouldn’t be under pressure.”
The coach also appealed to Zambian supporters to turn out in large numbers and rally behind the team, pointing to the impressive backing the senior national team received during its recent home fixture in Ndola.
“The message to the players is loud and clear. Everyone must fight to achieve the objective.
“To the fans, they must turn up in numbers and support the boys. Their presence will inspire and motivate the boys. We saw how they supported the Chipolopolo in Ndola. The stadium was full. We appeal that they do the same,” he added.
Junior Chipolopolo captain Humphrey Bwembya echoed his coach’s confidence, insisting the squad had put the first-leg defeat behind them and was ready for the challenge.
“The team is very much ready. The result that we had in Burkina Faso is water under the bridge; we just have to push so that we can carry the day in tomorrow’s game,” Bwembya said.
The Egypt 2027 AFCON U23 tournament will also serve as the qualifying competition for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, with the two finalists earning Africa’s places at the football tournament.
Should Zambia overturn the deficit, they will face the winner of the second-round tie between Mauritania and DR Congo in the final qualifying round scheduled for March next year.
Sunday’s encounter kicks off at 15:00.
Ticket information
Tickets are available at all Shoprite outlets through Computicket.
- North and South Wings: K50
- East Wing: K100
- West Wing: K150
- VIP: K300
