Chipolopolo Down In Pre-CHAN Mini Tournament

Chipolopolo are this week engaged in a mini tournament as part of preparations for the forthcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN), which is scheduled to kick-off on January 16 in Cameroon.  

The Zambian national team drew their opening match with Niger 3-3. On Monday they lost 0-2 to Uganda’s Cranes, following goals for Vianne Ssekajugo (24’) and Steven Mukwala (62’). Chipolopolo coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic is a former Cranes coach. On Thursday they are set to play Cameroon, who are hosting the mini tournament, in their final match of the preparatory tournament. 

Zambia has been drawn in Group D in the upcoming tournament, alongside Guinea, Namibia and Tanzania. The Chipolopolo team will open their campaign against the Taifa Stars on January 19, before facing Guinea four days later. The final group game will be on January 27, 2020.  

Commenting on the upcoming CHAN Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President Andrew Kamanga stated, “Having been part of the last CHAN edition in Morocco where we exited in the quarterfinals, we are aiming to do better this time around. We have liaised with the technical bench to ensure that we give them the necessary support as they campaign at the CHAN. The onus will be on them to deliver to the expectations of Mother Zambia. We are grateful to government for keeping a closer eye on preparations for the CHAN and other engagements.”