Lwandamina Drops Big Names for AFCON Qualifiers

Chipolopolo head coach George Lwandamina has left out some experienced players in the 27-member squad named for Zambia’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Algeria and Togo.

The players include Clatous Chama, Edward Chilufya, Kings Kangwa and Frankie Musonda, as he opts for a squad featuring a blend of established internationals and emerging talent.

The selection includes Saudi Arabia-based Fashion Sakala and Patson Daka, who is currently with German side Hamburg, alongside players plying their trade in Switzerland, Scotland, Egypt, South Africa and Libya.

Lwandamina says he is confident in the group selected and believes the team has what it takes to secure Zambia’s place at the 2027 AFCON.

The Chipolopolo face an immediate test when they travel to Algeria on September 25, before returning home to host Togo at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola four days later.

Zambia is in Group I alongside Algeria, Togo and Burundi, with the top teams fighting for qualification to the tournament to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.