Zesco United assistant coach Emmanuel Siwale is confident of his side’s readiness ahead of Saturday’s CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round first-leg fixture against Gabonese outfit FC 105 Libreville.

The match will take place at Franceville Stadium.

Speaking to the club’s media after the team’s final training session on Tuesday before departure, Siwale said the Ndola-based side is fully prepared mentally and physically for the crucial encounter.

“The team is very much ready. This is what the boys have been looking forward to, and it will be our first assignment in the CAF Confederation Cup. Mentally and physically, they are very much prepared and ready for the encounter,” he said.

Facing FC 105 for the first time, Siwale admitted that Zesco has limited knowledge of their opponents but emphasized the importance of focusing on their own strengths.

“This is a team we don’t know much about, but as a coach, you can pick up one or two things during preparations,” he added.

The assistant coach also highlighted the squad depth boosted by new signings and the morale gained from their recent 1-0 MTN Super League win over Mighty Mufulira Wanderers.

“That victory was a morale booster, but this is a different tournament. We have worked hard to prepare, and the boys understand that we’re representing not just Zesco but Zambia as a whole. The nation should expect us to bring home a positive result,” Siwale said.

Zesco United will be aiming for an early advantage in Gabon before hosting the return leg in Ndola.

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