(ZANIS) The Government has urged Zambia National Team players to embrace pride, responsibility, and discipline as they represent the country at the Africa Cup of Nations -AFCON, which kicks off today in Morocco.
Youth, Sport and Arts Minister ELVIS NKANDU says the players must recognise that they are among the few selected to represent more than 20 million Zambians.
ZANIS reports that NKANDU said the Government has done its part in preparing the team by arranging an international training camp in Spain, where the Chipolopolo played a high-profile friendly against the Democratic Republic of Congo, which ended in a 2-0 defeat.
He added that the players should understand that the hopes of every Zambian rest on their shoulders, and that they must make the nation proud.
NKANDU also urged football fans to get behind the team and show their support.
Meanwhile, Football Association of Zambia –FAZ- Head of Media and Communications NKWETO TEMBWE said the association’s aim is to win the AFCON tournament.
Football fan HUMPHREY BONDA added that Chipolopolo players should play with determination at the tournament and emulate the 2012 AFCON-winning team.
Zambia will open their Group A campaign on Monday against AFCON contenders Mali in Casablanca at 16:00 Zambian time.
The country is grouped with hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros.
