Zambia settle in Algiers as coach George Lwandamina demands history-changing display against Algeria

The Chipolopolo Boys have arrived in Algiers and settled into camp ahead of their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against Algeria on Friday.

The Zambia squad, led by captain Fashion Sakala, travelled to Algeria on Sunday following a week-long training camp in Lusaka as preparations intensified for the Group I opener.

The team immediately switched focus to conditions in North Africa, holding a training session on Sunday evening at Tirsathone Stadium in Azazga, Tizi Ouzou.

The session formed part of Zambia’s final preparations as coach George Lwandamina works to sharpen his side ahead of what is expected to be a demanding opening assignment against the Algerians.

The Zambian camp is located about five kilometres from the Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium, where the two teams will meet in the first match of their qualifying campaign.

Lwandamina challenges Zambia to break North African jinx

With the encounter looming, Lwandamina has urged his players to use the opportunity to challenge the long-standing belief that North African opposition holds an advantage over Zambia.

The Chipolopolo coach believes Friday’s fixture can provide his squad with the platform to change the narrative surrounding Zambia’s performances against teams from the region.

Speaking to his players in North Africa, Lwandamina stressed that Algeria should not be regarded as an opponent beyond Zambia’s reach.

“This game on Friday gives you a chance to change to rewrite history and make the change, they are as human as we are,” Lwandamina told the players.

His message comes as Zambia prepares to begin a qualifying campaign in a group that also includes Togo and Burundi.

The opening fixture against Algeria therefore represents an immediate test for Lwandamina’s side, with a positive result potentially setting the tone for the remainder of the campaign.

21 players already in camp

Zambia have so far received 21 of the 27 players summoned for the assignment, with the remaining members expected to complete the squad as the week progresses.

Among those expected to join the team are Germany-based striker Patson Daka, Miguel Chaiwa, Joseph Liteta, Ricky Chanda, Mathews Banda and Kingstone Mutandwa.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) says Orlando Pirates striker Gampani Lungu is expected to be the final player to report for duty, with his arrival scheduled for Tuesday.

The late arrivals will give Lwandamina the opportunity to work with his complete squad before the team turns its attention fully to Friday’s encounter.

The Chipolopolo Boys’ early arrival in Algeria has also allowed the technical team to acclimatise the players to the local environment and continue preparations away from the pressure of matchday.

Zambia begin road to 2027 AFCON

The fixture against Algeria marks the beginning of Zambia’s journey towards the 2027 AFCON finals, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

Zambia have been drawn alongside Algeria, Togo and Burundi in Group I, making Friday’s clash a significant early test in their qualification bid.

With the Chipolopolo now settled in Algiers, attention will centre on whether Lwandamina’s charges can translate their preparations into a performance capable of challenging the hosts.

The Zambian side will hope their week-long camp in Lusaka, followed by their early arrival in Algeria, provides the foundation for a strong start to the campaign.