Chipolopolo encouraged before Argentina showdown

 First Secretary for Political and Consular Affairs at the Zambian Embassy in Brazil, Batseba Ngwenya has urged the Chipolopolo Boys to rise to the occasion ahead of the FIFA International friendly against world champions Argentina.

Speaking after paying a courtesy call on the team at EFE Hotel & Cowork in Buenos Aires yesterday, Ngwenya said the match is a chance for the 2012 African champions to prove themselves on the International stage.

“It will be a tough match playing the world champions, but I want to remind you that football is played on the pitch and is not always determined by reputation,” she said.

Ngwenya urged the players to believe in themselves, remain disciplined and approach the match with confidence and determination.

Speaking at the same event, Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Keith Mweemba said the fixture is more than just a friendly but a moment that could be a turning point for Zambian football.

Mweemba explained that while there is no need to dwell on past shortcomings, the current state of the game falls below expectations.

“Zambian football has dropped to levels where no one can be proud. But we must unite and rebuild the game through what I am calling ‘Operation Making Zambia Great Again,” he added.

 FAZ Technical Committee Vice chairperson, Kalusha Bwalya said the invitation from the Argentine FA is a sign of growing confidence in Zambia’s rebuilding efforts.

Chipolopolo captain Fashion Sakala thanked Ngwenya for her encouragement and assured the nation that the team is ready for the challenge.

Zambia faces Argentina on Tuesday at 20:15 local time (01:15 Wednesday, Zambian time) at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires.