Zambia’s Tough Record Against Non-African Teams Faces Ultimate Test Against Argentina

BEIJING, CHINA - OCTOBER 15: Neymar of Brazil (Center) competes the ball with Chongo Kabaso of Zambia (Right) during the international friendly match between Brazil and Zambia at Beijing National Stadium on October 15, 2013 in Beijing, China. (Photo by Feng Li/Getty Images)

On March 31, the world will be watching as George Lwandamina’s Chipolopolo face the world champions Argentina in what will arguably be Zambia’s biggest international friendly encounter since 2013.

On Saturday, Zambians woke up to a pleasant surprise, reading that Chipolopolo had been named among the teams Argentina will play as they prepare for the World Cup.

“The Argentine national team, led by Lionel Scaloni, will face their second friendly commitment of the FIFA Date against Zambia next Tuesday, 31 March, from 20.15, at la bombonera,” a post from Argentina’s official Facebook page read in part.

Chipolopolo has endured a difficult run in international friendlies in recent years, recording seven defeats and just three wins in their last 10 matches against non-African opposition. The victories came against India, Korea, and Yemen.

The defeats have been against stronger or more experienced sides such as Brazil, Chile, Kuwait, Japan, Jordan, Russia, and Korea. Will Argentina add its name to that list? Or does Landmine have a surprise up his sleeve?

FIFA player and match agent Chiti Chitundu has said this game will give Zambia some good visibility.

“It is a game that will give us good visibility; it is an opportunity for whichever player has been called to take this game seriously.

“Recent Chipolopolo results may suggest that Zambia is not an attractive team to play against; the fact that we have such a huge game, it means something,” Chitundu said.