Zambia national team before key qualifying matches: “All competitors are strong. There are no more outsiders”

The first stage of African qualification for the 2026 World Cup is in full swing. The Zambian national team is fighting for a ticket to the World Cup with strong competitors in Group E - the teams of Morocco, Niger, Tanzania and Congo. Chipolopolo hopes to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in its history, and many believe this is possible.

Kabwe Warriors player Kabaso Chongo has been called up to the Zambian national team for key matches against Morocco (June 7) and Tanzania (June 11). On this occasion, the 32-year-old defender gave an interview in which he spoke about his emotions, the national team, Chipolopolo’s performance at the last AFCON and expectations from the upcoming matches.
 

• How did you feel when you received the call to the key World Cup qualifiers?

• This is a great honor for me. It's nice to be back in the national team after a long absence. Words cannot describe the emotions you feel when you step onto the field wearing a Chipolopolo T-shirt. I want to give my all to bring joy to my country. 

• What are your expectations for the key matches in June?
   
• The games will not be easy. Morocco is a world-class team with players from top European clubs, and the Tanzanian national team also has a very good, experienced squad. We don't expect an easy ride from both matches, but we will do everything to get 6 points. We are well prepared and aware of the important task ahead of us. I think everyone is focused and determined only for maximum results.

• What tactics and strategy are you planning to use in the upcoming games?

• We just need to play based on our capabilities and the coach's instructions. Our team is in good shape, a mixture of youth and experience. I think the squad is already strong enough to compete for a decent result.

• What are your personal goals for the upcoming matches?

• I haven’t played for the national team for a long time, so I’m happy I just returned to it. I hope to contribute and help the team realize the dream of the whole country—to qualify for the World Cup.  

• What lessons should be learned from AFCON 2023, where Zambia failed to qualify for the playoffs?

• This tournament taught us a lot. We saw that there are no obvious outsiders, and each team can adequately prepare for big matches. The Zambian national team's performance was not bad, but we did not reach the playoffs and must continue to work on ourselves. If we prepare well, we can beat any team. The Zambian national team has players who can make a difference and bring victories to the team.

• When did Zambia have the strongest national team in history?

• I will highlight two periods: the 2012 team that won the Africa Cup of Nations and the 1993 team, which had great potential but tragically died in a plane crash off the coast of Gabon.

• Who is Zambia's toughest opponent in the current qualifiers?

• All competitors are strong, as there are no outsiders anymore.

• What would you like to say to Kabwe Warriors fans ahead of the qualifying matches?

• Just unite and let us feel your support!

Kabaso Chongo returned to the Zambian national team after a 3-year break thanks to a successful spell with Kabwe Warriors. The 32-year-old defender joined Railmen in February, shortly after the collaboration between the popular club and 1xBet began. The player had a great second half of the season and helped Kabwe Warriors reach the ABSA Cup final for the first time in 17 years.

Railmen’s fans are confident that in the near future, their favorites will break the streak without trophies. And now you can register on our website or in the app with the profitable club promo code Kabwe1x and start a big game! Also, don’t forget to follow 1xBet on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Telegram in Zambia to keep up with the activities of the best bookmaker in Africa!