Sunzu and Frankie Musonda set to form formidable defensive partnership

2012 AFCON winner Stophila Sunzu is expected to continue his partnership with Frankie Musonda at the heart of the defense.

The duo has been playing together for some time and appears to be the most likely pairing that Avram Grant will deploy this evening.

Sunzu brings a wealth of experience to the team, having played for Chipolopolo for over 15 years.

He made his debut in 2008 and has participated in five Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including the historic 2012 edition, which Zambia won. Sunzu has earned 77 caps for the Copper Bullets and scored five goals.

Frankie Musonda, on the other hand, is a newer addition to the team but has quickly become an important player.

Musonda has made 12 appearances for the Chipolopolo Boys and formed a solid partnership with Sunzu.

Kabwe Warriors’ Kabaso Chongo is also available for selection, along with youngster Gift Mphande.

At left back, with both Kebson Kamanga and Rodrick Kabwe unavailable, Lubambo Musonda is expected to fill in. Musonda, who recently moved to Germany’s second division, has been playing for the Chipolopolo Boys for the last ten years and brings significant experience to the table.

In the absence of Benedict Chepeshi, Tandi Mwape is expected to play at right back.

Zambia is currently second in Group E after defeating Congo Brazzaville 4-2 on Match Day One before losing 2-1 to Niger on Match Day Two.