Red Arrows head coach Chisi Mbewe has described the Airmen’s CAF Confederation Cup group stage draw as fair but challenging, as the Zambian side prepares for its maiden appearance in the competition’s group stage.
Reacting to the draw, Mbewe expressed confidence in his team’s prospects but acknowledged that the road ahead would not be easy. He emphasised the importance of thorough preparation and a disciplined approach as Red Arrows prepare to face their continental opponents.
“Thank you so much. I think it is a fair but not easy draw for us,” Mbewe said.
Red Arrows secured their historic group stage qualification after overcoming South African giants Kaizer Chiefs, winning 3-2 on penalties following a 1-0 defeat in the second leg, which left the aggregate score at 1-1.
The Airmen have been placed in Group C alongside Tanzania’s Singida Black Stars, AS Maniema Union of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the winner of the outstanding qualification tie involving Algeria’s CR Belouizdad, AS Douanes of Mauritania and Guinea’s Hafia FC.
The group presents another significant test for the Zambian side as they look to build on their qualification achievement and compete for a place in the quarter-finals.
Before turning their full attention to continental football, however, Red Arrows must return to domestic action. The Airmen are scheduled to host Chirundu United this Saturday at Nkoloma Stadium in an MTN Super League Stream B fixture.
The match offers an opportunity for the team to continue its domestic campaign while preparing for the challenges that await in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.
Red Arrows will be looking to count on the support of their fans as they balance their local league commitments with the demands of representing Zambia on the continental stage.
