The Chipolopolo boys have continued to ramp up their preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The tournament is set to kick off in Ivory Coast starting on January 13, 2024.
Zambia will play Cameroon in a friendly match on Tuesday, January 9th, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where they are currently camping.
Prison Leopards defender Zephaniah Phiri, who is part of the 27-man squad, is ready for the challenge ahead.
He said it’s time to show the coach that the team is capable of facing any opponent on the continent.
Phiri told Bolanews that he is looking forward to proving himself to Avram Grant once more.
“It’s just to be wise. Football is played on the pitch, and once given a chance, it’s to prove again to the coaching staff that I can face any experienced side like Cameroon, Egypt, Senegal, or Morocco.”
Phiri impressed Grant in a friendly match between Zambia and Uganda, providing two assists in a 3-0 victory.
The 26-year-old right-back will be hoping to make the starting eleven for the AFCON despite stiff competition in the squad.
Zambia is expected to wrap up its international camp and fly out to San Pedro on January 11th.
The 2012 Champions are placed in Group F alongside Tanzania, Morocco, and the DR Congo.
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The Chipolopolo boys will open their AFCON campaign against DR Congo on January 17th, before facing Tanzania four days later.
They will conclude their group-stage fixtures against Morocco on January 24th.
