South Africa vs Zambia: Chipolopolo coach Sichone “treating Bafana Bafana Clash like a Cup Final”

Newly appointed Zambia coach Moses Sichone has declared that their clash against Bafana Bafana will be treated like a cup final, as Chipolopolo aim to go all out for victory on Saturday at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.

Speaking to the media, Sichone stressed that this is far more than just a friendly match. Instead, it’s an opportunity to fine-tune his squad ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where Zambia will compete in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros.

“We are expecting a tough game against South Africa, and we also want to give them a good friendly match,” said Sichone.
“We are not going there just to play. We are taking it very seriously and we want to win. South Africa qualified for the World Cup, so it’s a good test for us. It’s also a chance for other players to prove they are ready for AFCON.”

Zambia have two warm-up fixtures before AFCON: first against Bafana Bafana and then Angola. Sichone insists the door remains open for players to impress and secure a spot in his final tournament squad.

“The door is still open for players doing well in the local league. They still stand a chance. We are trying to balance the team with experienced players and new faces. As long as they are Zambians, the door is open for everyone. All we want are players ready to fight for the country and show their talent. That’s why we are treating this game like a cup final.”

The Chipolopolo mentor added that Zambia will embrace their underdog status, especially amid some dismissive comments about the fixture.

“We know South Africa have underrated us. I’ve read comments saying they wanted to play Brazil, but for us, this game is serious. We hope to get a positive result and then focus on our next friendly against Angola,” he concluded.

Zambia’s Squad for the Bafana Clash

Sichone has named a 41-man provisional squad for the November FIFA window, blending experience with fresh talent.

The list includes European-based stars Patson Daka (Leicester City), Fashion Sakala (Al Fayha), and Lameck Banda (Lecce), alongside veterans like Stoppilla Sunzu and Lubambo Musonda.

Several local standouts have also earned debut call-ups, such as Eliya Mandanji (Zanaco), Solomon Mpasela (FC Muza), Yoram Chanda (Kabwe Warriors), and Aaron Musonda (Mutondo Stars).