IT’S NOT PARTY TIME -‘MICHO’

By MICHAEL MIYOBAZAMBIA national soccer team coach Miluttin Micho Sredojevic has cautioned his Bullets to focus on being more clinical and improve after the Chipolopolo came from behind to beat Botswana 2-1 in a Group H AFCON qualifier at National Heroes Stadium.The two goals from midfield genius Enock Mwepu and Collins Sikombe redeemed Zambia’s hopes …

IT’S NOT PARTY TIME -‘MICHO’
By MICHAEL MIYOBAZAMBIA national soccer team coach Miluttin Micho Sredojevic has cautioned his Bullets to focus on being more clinical and improve after the Chipolopolo came from behind to beat Botswana 2-1 in a Group H AFCON qualifier at National Heroes Stadium.The two goals from midfield genius Enock Mwepu and Collins Sikombe redeemed Zambia’s hopes of qualifying for the 2022 AFCON slated for Cameroon. However the Chipolopolo gaffer said the team has no time and space to celebrate after they struggled to beat Botswana in a game characterised with a lot of missed chances for the Copper Bullets.“We are fully aware where we have been. We were rock bottom now we have three points but now, we simply have no time and space to celebrate,” the Serb said.“We need to go back to the drawing board to prepare well for Monday (against Botswana) because this match will not mean anything if we do not put a stamp on the final leg on Monday.”Despite the sluggish play especially in the first half of the game against Botswana, “Micho” believes his technical bench and the players are determined to ensure that they get another important win when they play Botswana.“I believe in the players we have and I believe with good planning and good tactical approach, we can outfight, out play and out run the opponents for the points. We need to go like suicide bombers like I have said in the past,” said “Micho.”Meanwhile, President Edgar Lungu has hailed the Chipolopolo boys for fighting back to beat Botswana. Lungu said soccer stars and the game unites Zambia across all imaginary barriers of status, income, politics, age, tribe or race.“Our national team impacts millions around the country with their talent and passion in the sport. It is in moments like this and the sweet sound of victory in unity that make me proud to be a loyal supporter of ‘team chipolopolo’ along with 17 million Zambians.“Bravo Chipolopolo. You have made us proud!” Lungu said.The Chipolopolo who fell behind from a Tumisang Orebonye header in 45th minute before Mwepu got the equaliser a minute later after benefitting from Lubambo Musonda’s assist before a second half winner from Collins Sikombe.