Lwandamina Reacts To The 2027 Afcon Qualification Draw
George Lwandamina says preparation and unity will be key if the Zambia Men’s National Football Team are to secure qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Reacting to the AFCON 2027 qualification draw, which placed Zambia in Group I alongside Algeria National Football Team, Togo National Football Team and Burundi National Football Team, Lwandamina stressed that every team in the group has a chance.
“Draws are drawn and not pointed. So, it means that we all have chance. It all goes about preparation,” said Lwandamina.
“The team that will prepare adequately, I am sure that’s the team that will pose threat to us, if that is, we don’t prepare well.”
The veteran tactician believes Zambia possesses players capable of competing against the continent’s best sides but emphasized that proper planning will determine the team’s success.
“We have players who can compete. What is just important is how much preparation will be given to the team,” he added.
Lwandamina also called on players to remain humble and united ahead of the qualifiers which begin in September 2026.
“They have to remove pride and embrace one Zambia. We only have Zambia as our country. So, we have to fight for our mother Zambia.”
The Chipolopolo coach further urged supporters across the country to rally behind the national team regardless of differing opinions on player selections.
“We are all Zambians and we only have one Zambia. So, everyone should rally behind the team. I am sure selections cannot please everybody. But we have to push in one direction. Whether happy, unhappy, we are all Zambians.”
According to the qualification roadmap, Matchdays 1 and 2 will be played during the FIFA international window from 21 September to 6 October 2026. Matchdays 3 and 4 are scheduled for 9-17 November 2026, while the final two rounds will take place between 22-30 March 2027.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations tournament will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from 19 June to 17 July 2027.
