Zambia national team interim coach George Lwandamina was pleased with the team’s 2-0 victory over Togo in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, saying his players followed his instructions.

The victory came after Zambia suffered a 3-1 defeat to Algeria last Friday, with Lwandamina attributing the loss to individual mistakes.

However, following Tuesday’s victory, Lwandamina said the players fought for each other, which helped cover up individual mistakes.

“Today’s game, they were playing for each other. One would make a mistake, the other one would rectify the mistake. That is what was happening,” Lwandamina said, explaining what led to his team’s victory.

“Mistakes are there. These are human beings. But if there is someone behind you who’s able to rectify, then there is coordination in the team.”

On Togo, Lwandamina said they are a good team, but his side was well prepared for the encounter.

“Togo, they are a good team, but we prepared for them. And the boys followed the instructions. They did the best they could. I know there were a bit of, mm, lactic acid creeping into their legs, but they managed to finish the game.”

Zambia have now moved into second place in Group I with three points, level with Togo and behind leaders Algeria, who have four points after a 2-2 draw with Burundi.

The Chipolopolo Boys will play their next Group I qualifier on November 11 against Burundi at home before travelling for the reverse fixture on November 15.