Kenya in retribution battle with Chipolopolo

by
Kelvin Trudeau Musako
September 1, 2016

Levy Mwanwasa Stadium in Ndola is the setting for an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier that has no bearing on the outcome of Group E with minows Guinea Bissau already sealing qualification to Gabon 2017

But for Kenya and Zambia its a case of restoring National pride. The Haraambe stars will be looking to get one over their rivals in Ndola.

Boasting of talents that plie their trade in Zambia for Zesco United in the shape of David Owino and Jesse Were, the Kenya’s aim will be to overturn a 1-2 defeat suffered in Nairobi at the hands of the Chipolopolo.

Skipper Victor Wanyama who plays for Tottenham Hotspurs in England faces a battle to impress in the midfield and will be up against opposing Chipolopolo captain Rainford Kalaba and Nathan Sinkala both of TP Mazembe.

Also looking to leave a mark on the game for Kenya is Michael Olunga who scored in the reverse fixture. The talisman will be expected to link up with Jesse Were up front.
Chipolopolo coach George Lwandamina has instituted a team reshuffle droping veteran goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene and striker Collins Mbesuma and replaced the duo with Jacob Banda and Lewis Macha.

Nkwazi striker Justin Shonga has seen his goal scoring prowes in the FAZ League earn him a National Team call up. Also making his Chipolopolo bow is John Chingandu of Zesco United. His performance for Zesco in the Champions League has been breathtaking and it is no surprise the attacker received a nod from Lwandamina.

The usual suspects for Chipolopolo include Winston Kalengo in the strikers department and it is expected that Jackson Mwanza will partner him upfront.

Who will carry the day? The tie is very close to call.

One thing for sure is that Ndola will buzzing and it is left for the players to battle it out on the stomping grounds of Levy Mwanawasa.

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