Zambia skipper Fashion Sakala says fans should expect to see a fired-up team when Zambia takes on Togo on Tuesday in a Group I AFCON qualifier.
Speaking during a pre-match press conference this morning Sakala said Zambia said winning home games will be key in helping the Chipolopolo qualify for the AFCON.
“The team is ready; we are ready to fight in tomorrow’s game. the confidence and the motivation that we have in the team. We understand we lost against Algeria that was the way game and they had their fans at home,” he said.
“If we want to qualify, we have to win this game. we will definitely win tomorrow no doubt about it we will try to give the best. Everyone will see a very different game tomorrow. I am very confident about that.”
“It is a very important game because we are playing at home with fans behind us. I know that definitely the stadium will be full. Zambian people have never disappointed us when it comes to support.”
Sakala also weighed in on the criticism directed at him as an individual: “Criticism on me as an individual, I don’t really pay attention to that, I think I have been playing football for many years, I am going in my 13th year at this level that should show that it has been a lot of hard work and commitment behind the scenes.
“I think people will criticize me but they should also see how long I have been in the game. I have tried my best I do not like to talk about myself, I prefer to talk about the team but since this question is about me I will answer it.”
He added: “It has built me; it has given me courage and confidence to work hard for each and every game. to be honest I am very proud of myself looking at where I am coming from to be where I am it shows that I have really worked very hard.”
Zambia hosts Togo on Tuesday in a Group I 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
