By Kalemba
ZAMBIA Air Force Commander, Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni has challenged Red Arrows to target a place in the final of the CAF Confederation Cup after their historic qualification to the group stage.
Lt Gen Nyoni made the remarks last night when he received the team at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport at 21:30 hours following their arrival from Durban, South Africa, where they eliminated South African giants Kaizer Chiefs.
“I expected nothing less than victory and you have brought that victory. Congratulations,” Lt Gen Nyoni told the players.
He said the qualification was a moment worthy of celebration but should serve as motivation to pursue even greater achievements.
Lt Gen Nyoni, who is also Red Arrows Patron, said his decision to personally receive the team fulfilled a promise he had made before the match.
He shared that the team’s victory has gotten President Hakainde Hichilema’s praise which has added pride to the Air Force.
Meanwhile, the Commander’s appreciation did not end with only words but were accompanied by action after presenting Head Coach Chisi Mbewe with a Toyota Mark X vehicle to facilitate his movement for training sessions and official duties.
ZAF delegation leader Brig Gen Simon Tembo, who accompanied the team to Durban, described Red Arrows as a disciplined and quality side that continues to make the Air Force proud.
Football Association of Zambia representative and overall delegation leader Samuel Mwape congratulated the club and described the qualification as a significant milestone for Zambian football.
Mwape appealed to Lt Gen Nyoni to continue supporting the team to achieve greater success and help restore Zambia’s competitiveness on the African stage. He assured the Commander that FAZ remained open to collaboration on football development.
Red Arrows secured their place in the CAF Confederation Cup Group Stage after overcoming Kaizer Chiefs over two legs which ended with a penalty shootout.
