Zambia coach Aljosa Asanovic has said Chipolopolo are fired up for battle against hosts Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Friday.

The coach said he had done his home work and the players are ready to apply what they have learnt in training.

“We finished preparations. We worked very hard and we can’t wait for the game. However, preparation is another thing and the actual game is something else,” he said.

The man from Croatia has since urged his players to prove their worth against the fancied opponents.

“We know the importance of the first game. We are playing against a very strong team, a very organized team with big name players but I am so positive about my players. I see a family atmosphere in the team,” Asanovic said.

Zambia have a full squad that comprises Europe-based stars Patson Daka (Leicester City), Enock Mwepu (Brighton and Hove Albion) and Fashion Sakala from Rangers in Scotland.

Zambia will next host Comoros Island in Lusaka on June 7.