The first contingent of foreign based players has jetted into Abidjan where the Chipolopolo will set up base ahead of Friday’s Group G Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the African champions in Bouake.

Israel based Kings Kangwa (Hapoel Be’er Sheva) and Gift Mphande (Lishon LeZion) have been joined by China domiciled Stoppilla Sunzu (Changchun Yatai) who are among the early birds.

Goalkeeper trainer Davis Phiri has teamed up with the lads who will be joined by the local assemblage that is on its way to Coted’Ivoire. Coach Avram Grant will be expecting a full house by Tuesday with all the travel arrangements routing everyone into Abidjan.

Zambia will play Coted’Ivoire on Friday in Bouake before hosting Sierra Leone on Tuesday in Ndola at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in back-to-back Group G matches.