Prison Leopards FC defender Zephaniah Phiri stood out in the friendly match between Zambia and Uganda on Tuesday.
The Chipolopolo Boys beat the Cranes of Uganda 3-0 in Abu Dhabi after losing 1-0 to Egypt last week.
A brace from Leicester City’s Patson Daka and a headed goal by Saudi Arabia-based striker Fashion Sakala were enough to give Zambia a resounding victory ahead of next month’s World Cup qualifiers.
Meanwhile, the Prison Leopards right-back was a standout performer on his debut, providing two excellent assists to Sakala and Daka.
His performance has earned him praise from fans, pundits, and even coach Avram Grant who said, ” Phiri Zephaniah gave us very good assists and played well.”
In an exclusive interview with Bolanews, Phiri disclosed that he had promised himself before the match to utilize the opportunity given to him.
“I motivated myself and told myself that today there was no pressure. I just had to make use of the opportunity given to me,” he revealed. “It was a friendly match and the coach gave everyone instructions depending on the position they were playing, [which I followed].”
This was the second time Phiri was summoned to the national team. The last time he was summoned, Grant left him out of the final squad that travelled to Comoros for the last AFCON qualifier match.
Phiri is thrilled after making his debut and anticipates high expectations from fans.
“It feels good to be part of the national team. But the most important thing is to continue working hard,” he said. “I know the fans will expect more from me so I just have to work hard.”
Phiri dreams of AFCON debut
The 26-year-old wing-back is targeting playing at next year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“About me being part of the AFCON squad, that’s the most important thing; that’s what I want. I am new to the national team…. But it will be great for me to be part of the final squad. So I just have to work hard.”
Phiri has played seven games so far for Prison Leopards, providing one assist.
READ ALSO: Grant reveals why some Chipolopolo players may not play again
With Grant admitting that the players are giving him headaches over who to select for the AFCON and World Cup qualifiers, Phiri will look to impress in the domestic league.
Zambia will host Congo Brazzaville on November 15, 2023, before travelling to Niger two days later for their Group E2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
