By Enock Phiri |Bola Yapa Zed | 18th November 2025
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has confirmed that Chipolopolo head coach Moses Sichone and video analyst Elias Chipota, who were admitted to St George’s Private Hospital in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, have been discharged and are expected back home by Thursday, 19 November 2025.
FAZ Head of Media and Communications Nkweto Tembwe, speaking from Luanda, Angola, delivered the update this morning as Zambia prepares for their final international friendly match of the November FIFA window. The fixture is part of Angola’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations and will be staged at the iconic 11th November Stadium.
According to the team doctor, all players in camp have been issued a clean bill of health, providing a timely boost for the technical bench ahead of tonight’s match. With Sichone unavailable, Assistant Coach Perry Mutapa will take charge of the team.
Mutapa has hinted at major rotations, stressing that every player will be given an opportunity to showcase their ability.
> “Everyone will get game time to show what they can bring to the table. The team spirit is very high and the boys are looking forward to the match,” Mutapa said.
Selection Battles Ahead of Angola Showdown
Chipolopolo will be looking to close their friendly schedule on a high when they face the Palancas Negras at 18:00 CAT.
Goalkeeping coach Kennedy Mweene faces a tough decision between Toaster Nsabata, Mangani Banda, Charles Kalumba, and Francis Mwansa for the starting spot between the posts.
In defence, the central pairing options include Benson Sakala, Frankie Musonda, and Killian Kanguluma, while the fullback positions will be contested by Obinno Chisala, David Hamansenya, Mathews Banda, and Owen Mwamba.
The midfield is likely to feature the industrious Given Kalusa, whose strong debut in the 3–1 loss to South Africa caught the eye. He will compete for a place alongside Gift Siame, Humphrey Bwembya, and Kelvin Mwanza, depending on the tactical approach.
Up front, captain Fashion Sakala is expected to lead the charge, supported by attacking options such as Joseph Sabobo Banda, Jack Lahne, and the speedy Albert Kangwanda.
Angola Eyeing a Celebratory Finish
Hosts Angola will be eager to crown their independence milestone with a win on home soil. The Palancas Negras suffered a 2–0 defeat to a Lionel Messi–inspired Argentina in their previous outing and will be keen to bounce back.
Their attacking firepower includes M’bala Nzola, Zito Luvumbo, Gelson Dala, Chico Banza, and the prolific Mabululu.
With both sides eager to test their depth and build momentum, fans can expect a competitive and fast-paced encounter under the Luanda floodlights.
Kick-off is at 18:00 CAT.
