Zambia and Orlando Pirates forward Gamphani Lungu has urged the Chipolopolo Boys not to put themselves under pressure when they face Algeria in their opening match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers tomorrow.

Zambia will begin their Group I campaign away to the Desert Foxes in what is expected to be a demanding encounter against one of Africa’s established football nations.

Lungu, who has returned to the national team after a period out with injury, said the match presents Zambia with an opportunity to redeem themselves following their disappointing showing at the last AFCON.

“It’s obviously good to be back, firstly to play for Zambia, which is always an honour. I’m also doing it for my family and the rest of Zambia, so helping the younger players and the players that are new with the national team,” Lungu told FAZ Media.

Lungu acknowledged Algeria’s quality, describing them as one of the continent’s leading football nations, but said Zambia should focus on their own performance rather than the reputation of their opponents.

“Algeria is obviously a big nation. Everyone knows Algeria to be one of the big six, big seven on the continent, so it’s obviously going to be difficult,” he said. “But I don’t think we should put ourselves under pressure because at the end of the day it’s 11 versus 11 on the field. Anyone can win.”

“If we come prepared the way we’ve been preparing and we all want to fight for each other, cover one another and fight for the nation and get Zambia to where it belongs, which is one of the top countries on the continent, we can get there,” he said.

Lungu also said competition for places within the squad would help raise the overall level of the team.

“For me, I always like to have competition because you can never be a great player if you don’t have competition,” he said. “It’s really good to have everyone ready for the game, pushing for the game, wanting to play for Zambia.”

The Orlando Pirates forward also backed himself to make an impact if given the opportunity against Algeria.

“Should I be given a chance, we should expect a goal. I’ll do what I can for the country because for me, a goal is what I want for the country. We can’t win if we don’t score.”