Nkwazi Football Club head coach Aggrey Chiyangi has stated that the club’s lack of preseason training has impacted their fitness level in the first three games of the 2024-25 Zambian Super League season.

The Policemen have four points from their first three matches of the season.

Nkwazi defeated Mutondo Stars 2-0 on matchday one, then lost 1-0 at home to Napsa Stars and drew 0-0 with Atletico Lusaka.

Chiyangi, who took over from Oswald Mutapa, has expressed concern about the players’ fitness levels but noted that the team is improving with each match played.

“Our team did not do preseason, so we are doing preseason within the season, and we are trying to make sure that the fitness level is going up,” Chiyangi said.

“I have observed that the fitness level is going up as we keep playing. I think by the time we play, the fitness level will go up.”

The gaffer has also revealed that he is aiming to qualify the team for the Absa Cup tournament after the first round of matches.

“Our target is to beat last season’s target. The other target is qualifying for the Absa Cup,” he said.

Chiyangi is also worried by the number of chances his team missed against Atletico Lusaka on Sunday afternoon.

“It’s all about concentration from the players that are getting sure scoring chances. What’s important also is for us coaches to help players convert the chances,” Chiyangi noted.

Nkwazi is currently in ninth place with four points after three matches.