Zambia and DR Congo Renew Rivalry as AFCON Preparations Face Early Challenges
Right now, all eyes are on the Zambian national team as they continue their preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations, and the build-up has already come with a few frustrations. Chipolopolo head coach Moses Sichone has openly admitted that things have not gone entirely to plan, especially with the late arrival of several foreign-based players. Speaking from the team’s pre-AFCON camp in Spain, it was made clear that delays from clubs releasing their players have disrupted the rhythm he had hoped to establish at this stage.
Because of these delays, the technical bench has been forced to adjust quickly. For the upcoming international friendly against the Democratic Republic of Congo, most of the squad is expected to be made up of locally based players. This decision was not necessarily planned from the start, but it has been accepted as an opportunity rather than a setback. According to Sichone, the focus has now shifted to making the most of the players who are already available, using the situation to assess depth, hunger, and readiness ahead of AFCON.
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The match against DR Congo is more than just another friendly. It represents the renewal of a long-standing rivalry between two neighbours who know each other very well. The clash is scheduled to take place at the Pinatar Arena Sports Complex in Spain, with kickoff set for 16:00 hours. It is one of two key warm-up matches, alongside a fixture against Ivory Coast, that are being used to sharpen the squad before the continental tournament begins in Morocco.
Confidence-building has been highlighted as a major objective during these friendlies. The coaching staff believes that strong performances, even from a largely local squad, can send a positive message throughout the camp. Players will be observed closely, with places in the final AFCON lineup still very much up for grabs. For the local players especially, this match against DR Congo is being viewed as a rare chance to stake a serious claim for regular first-team involvement.
Despite the frustrations, there is a calm determination around the camp. Reinforcements have already started to arrive, including foreign-based players joining the squad in stages, and the expectation is that the full group will soon be assembled. Until then, adaptability is being demanded, and patience is being tested.
As Zambia and DR Congo meet once again on the pitch, the result may matter less than the lessons learned. For Chipolopolo, this is about fine-tuning, unity, and belief. With AFCON just days away, every minute on the field is being treated as valuable, and every challenge is being seen as part of the journey toward continental glory.
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