We hope to get a good result in our friendly against South Africa – Zambia coach Moses Sichone

Newly appointed Zambia coach Moses Sichone has voiced his frustration over comments from South Africa ahead of their international friendly, suggesting that Bafana Bafana would have preferred to face Brazil rather than the Chipolopolo.

Zambia and South Africa will meet at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, with kickoff set for 15:00.

The friendly forms part of both teams’ preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next month.

Speaking ahead of the match, Sichone emphasized that his team is approaching the game with full focus, despite what he perceives as dismissive remarks from their opponents.

“We are expecting a tough game against South Africa. And we also want to give them a good, friendly game,” he said.

“So we are not just going there to go and play. We’re taking it so seriously, and we also want to win the game because South Africa qualified for the World Cup, and it’s a good test for us.

“As a technical bench, we are taking this game as if it’s a cup final. We know that they have underrated us.

“I’ve been reading some comments which are coming from South Africa, they wanted to play Brazil, but for us, we take it as it comes.

“So we are taking this game very seriously, and we hope to go and get a positive result,” he added.