Zambia midfielder Wilson Chisala struck a bold and confident note ahead of Monday’s decisive Group A clash against hosts Morocco, insisting the Copper Bullets have nothing to fear as they chase a place in the AFCON last 16.
Speaking at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Chisala brushed aside the aura surrounding the Atlas Lions, calling the tournament hosts “overrated” while stressing that Zambia are ready for the challenge.
“Morocco is an overrated team,” Chisala said. “They are still a good side, but we are ready. There’s nothing to fear.”
Zambia go into the final round of group matches with two points from two games, having shown grit to remain unbeaten.
A late Patson Daka equaliser earned a draw against Mali in the opener before a goalless stalemate with Comoros left Chipolopolo third in the group, level on points with Mali and one ahead of Comoros.
The stakes are clear. Victory could lift Zambia to the top of Group A, while defeat could bring a premature end to their campaign.
For a nation that has not gone beyond the group stage since lifting the trophy in 2012, the moment is heavy with significance.
Chisala admits the pressure but believes it will fuel, not freeze, the team.
“The pressure is there,” he said. “But we are ready. This is a dream come true. These are the teams every player wants to face, and that motivates us.”
Morocco, meanwhile, carry their own weight of expectation. Despite already sealing knockout qualification, the hosts have yet to convince their fans, relying on penalties and struggling to create freely from open play.
Chisala remains unmoved by Morocco’s reputation or home support.
“It will be tough, but we are prepared,” he said. “We will face them.”
As Morocco look to finally spark their AFCON campaign, Zambia arrive believing this could be the night to end their long winless run at the tournament.
Zambia face Morocco on Monday, December 29, at 11:00pm EAT, with Mali and Comoros meeting at the same time in the other Group A fixture.
