Preparations ahead of the June 17 Group H Africa Cup of Nations qualifier match between Zambia and Ivory Coast, have intensified for the 2012 Africa cup of nations, champions in South Africa.
The team’s 26 players who have reported for camp so far, are working with Israeli coach Avram Grant in Johannesburg before returning to Ndola for the team’s final preparations.
Francisco Mwepu, the young brother to former Chipolopolo boys skipper, is among those summoned and he is making a return to the squad.
Mwepu, 23 became the first Zambian player to play in La Liga when he came on as a 70th minute substitute for the Spanish side Cadiz CF against Villarreal.
“Ivory Coast team is tough,”-Mwepu
“Definitely am so happy to be back for play for the national team. It’s a privilege and it’s an honour to represent my country. I just want to keep working and improving my skills,” the former Kafue Celtic player told FAZ media.
Meanwhile, Mwepu believes the Ivory Coast game will not be an easy encounter but is confident the team has quality players to deliver the needed result on the day.
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“It’s not an easy match, but of course everything is possible, we have to show our qualities during the match because this is a very important match for us. The fans should come and fill the stadium to capacity, and we will give them what they want,” Mwepu concluded.
Chipolopolo fans will wait and see if the Cadiz CF forward will be named in the final squad that will face Ivory Coast in a must win encounter at the giant Levy Mwanawasa stadium on the 17th of June. To make a comeback after three straight absences, Zambia needs to win or record a draw to secure a spot in the upcoming AFCON competition.
