By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Head coach George Lwandamina has rallied his side with a strong message of belief and motivation ahead of Zambia’s high-profile international friendly against world champions Argentina national football team, describing the encounter as both a “dream come true” and a powerful source of inspiration.
Lwandamina emphasized that the magnitude of the fixture alone has lifted the players’ spirits, with the squad eager to test themselves against one of the best teams in world football.
“We’ve done our part. We are prepared. I know we are playing the world champions. The game itself is the motivator,” he said.
“I’m sure it has motivated our boys. They will put in a lot.”
The Chipolopolo boss noted that facing a team of Argentina’s calibre — filled with players competing at the highest level globally — is enough to inspire any squad to rise to the occasion.
“We are playing the world champions, and the players in this team are everywhere in the world. Who doesn’t know about Argentina? Everyone. Even a kid would be able to come up with a line-up,” he said.
“Equally, we are in the same boat. We know what to expect.”
Drawing further motivation, Lwandamina revealed that the team closely followed Argentina’s recent match, which ended in a narrow 2–1 result, using it as encouragement ahead of their own test.
“We followed that game on TV. It was an exciting match, and it ended 2–1, which is a motivating factor for us,” he explained.
“Our African brothers tried their best and were beaten narrowly. That has motivated us as Zambians. We’ve put in a lot, and we will protect our identity.”
Despite the focus on motivation, the veteran tactician admitted that the opportunity itself came as a surprise, making the occasion even more special for both him and the players.
“It’s a dream come true. No one expected that we could get an invitation from Argentina, but this is the reality now. We are already here,” he said.
“It’s my first time. I don’t know about other members of the team — I can only speak for myself.”
The Chipolopolo Boys will face La Albiceleste in Buenos Aires today at 20:15 local time (Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 01:15 Zambian time).
