Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Zambia National Soccer Team
Zambia chase their first win in the 2017 Africa Cup qualifiers when they visit Kenya in a Group E clash on Sunday in Nairobi.
The 2012 champions have one point in Group E after an unconvincing 0-0 home draw against Guinea Bissau in what was the two sides’ debut meeting on June 13 in Ndola.
Kenya too have one point after a 1-1 away result against Congo-Brazzaville on June 14.
Zambia coach George Lwandamina said he is determined to put that stuttering display behind him in what was his first match in charge just a week after replacing the fired Honour Janza.
“My target is always the same. I will still maintain that our objective is still the same. We want to get a positive result. That is why we are working so tirelessly so that we achieve our desire to achieve good results,” Lwandamina said.
“Playing away has its own advantages and disadvantages and we will take advantage so that we have more points before we play other teams.
“Our ultimate objective is to get more points. Football is a game of situations.”
Lwandamina’s battle to end Zambia’s goal specter has seen him make some surprising picks in attack after axing 2012 Africa Cup-winning star striker Emmanuel Mayuka due to poor form.
Little-known Friday Samu of Green Buffaloes has made the trip despite scoring just one goal in six under-23 qualifying matches and another three in the league.
Zesco United striker Winston Kalengo, who has 11 league goals and two for Zambia in the 2016 Chan qualifiers, is also set for his Africa Cup qualifying match debut at the age of 30 and could partner veteran Collins Mbesuma who returns to the fold after a one year exile from the team.
Meanwhile, this will be Kenya and Zambia’s first meeting in the qualifiers since 1999 when Chipolopolo beat Harambee Stars 1-0 away and at home in their way to topping Group 6 and qualifying undefeated with just one draw.