Chipolopolo Look to Togo After 3-1 Algeria Defeat
Chipolopolo coach George Lwandamina says injuries and individual mistakes contributed to Zambia’s 3-1 defeat to Algeria in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at the Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium.
Lwandamina said Zambia fought until the final whistle in a difficult away fixture played before a vociferous home crowd.
“It was a tough match and the boys played well. Away from home, it wasn’t easy for them, but they fought to the bitter end,” Lwandamina said.
The coach acknowledged that Zambia made a few mistakes which Algeria capitalised on, while injuries forced changes that disrupted his plans.
“Few mistakes, of course, and we were punished. Injuries also affected us. We had to make changes which we wouldn’t have made, and that cost us the game,” he said.
Lwandamina believes the young Chipolopolo side can recover from the setback, stressing the importance of collecting maximum points in their home matches.
“Definitely, we need to win our home games if we are to qualify. Togo won’t have it easy,” he warned.
He added that the youthful squad is developing well and can improve with greater experience.
“This is a young team and they are coping very well. We can actually change the tables. The boys are fighting very hard and, with a little bit of experience in the team, I’m sure we’ll be able to bring them together.”
Lwandamina also acknowledged Algeria’s depth, before turning his attention to Zambia’s next Group I assignment against Togo as the Chipolopolo seek to respond on home soil.
