Zambia have arrived in Bujumbura ahead of Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter against Burundi, with both sides looking to strengthen their position in Group I.
The Chipolopolo touched down at Melchior Ndadaye International Airport at 12:45 local time before checking into Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, where coach George Lwandamina and his players will prepare for the return fixture.
Zambia will be aiming to secure all three points after their opening meeting with Burundi ended in a 1-1 draw at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Friday.
The result leaves the two sides with another opportunity to gain an advantage when they meet again in the Burundian capital.
For Lwandamina’s team, the immediate objective will be to turn their home draw into an away victory and collect maximum points from the encounter.
The Zambian squad’s arrival in Bujumbura marks the beginning of preparations for what could prove an important fixture in their pursuit of qualification for the 2027 AFCON.
The team travelled directly to the Burundian capital after the first leg in Ndola, where neither side managed to establish a winning advantage.
Their 1-1 draw means the second meeting will be an opportunity for both teams to make progress in Group I, with Zambia particularly keen to avoid dropping further points.
Burundi, known as the Swallows, will have the advantage of playing on home soil and will be looking to make that count against the former African champions.
Zambia, meanwhile, will need to produce a stronger performance to leave Bujumbura with the victory they are targeting.
The Chipolopolo have established their base at Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika as they prepare for Tuesday’s contest. The hotel, located in Bujumbura, will serve as the team’s accommodation ahead of the match.
With the first leg ending without a winner, the return fixture carries added importance for both teams as they continue their Group I campaign.
