Chipolopolo coach, Sichone, expresses frustration over late arrival of foreign-based players ahead of AFCON

Chipolopolo Head Coach, Moses Sichone, has expressed frustration over FIFA’s December 15 release date for foreign-based players, warning that the delay could disrupt Zambia’s preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking after a morning training session at the UNILUS Silverest Campus, Sichone said the team had planned to use the Spain training camp to assess the full squad, but the late arrival of key overseas players meant those plans would be affected.

“It’s just unfortunate that we won’t have all foreign-based players in good time as we wanted to utilize the Spain camp by having everyone on board. I only know of Kings Kangwa and Lubambo Musonda, whom I have personally spoken to. They will be released on the 14th of December,” he said.

The coach emphasized that having the entire squad earlier would have allowed him to fine-tune tactics and evaluate combinations before naming the final AFCON squad.

Despite the setback, Sichone noted that local players had responded well to training, quickly adapting to his tactical demands.

He is expected to announce his final 28-man squad tomorrow and called on fans to support the team.

Striker Fashion Sakala echoed the importance of strong preparation, saying the squad’s main target is to progress from the group stage.

“Although we know Group A is tough, we remain confident and ready to fight for our places,” Sakala said.

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