Kampamba Confident as Chipolopolo Gears Up for CHAN 2024

Chipolopolo midfielder Kelvin Mubanga Kampamba says the team is working hard in preparation for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to take place from August 2 to 30 in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Speaking in an interview with FAZ Media, Kampamba shared optimism about Zambia’s chances, while acknowledging the tough task that lies ahead in Group A, which features DR Congo, hosts Kenya, Morocco, and Angola.

Zambia kicks off their CHAN campaign on August 7 at 15:00 against DR Congo, a fixture that Kampamba says the team is steadily preparing for, both physically and mentally.

“We’ve just started, as you know we are coming from preseason with our clubs,” Kampamba said. “With the coming of Jim Rollins, you know how he pushes us, every time we step onto the pitch, we are expected to give everything. We’re hoping to reach the right fitness levels in time for CHAN.”

Kampamba acknowledged the presence of new players in the squad, saying their development is encouraging and vital to Zambia’s overall prospects.

“We’ve got a lot of new guys coming up. We just need to keep encouraging them and pushing every time because CHAN is very competitive and demands a lot from us, especially as local league players,” he said.

The midfielder emphasized the importance of representing Zambian football on the continental stage, stating that the team’s performance at CHAN can help restore Zambia’s reputation and push for more club opportunities.

“We need to showcase our skills and prove that we belong among Africa’s top four,” Kampamba said. “Zambia has so much talent. We just need to work extra hard, not only for the national team but also at club level, to bring back our four CAF slots.”

The 2024 CHAN tournament marks a historic moment, being the first time three countries, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, have jointly hosted a major continental football competition. Zambia will be aiming to add a new chapter to its proud footballing history.