CAFCC: ZESCO United bracing for tough Zamalek – Musukuma

ZESCO United star Peter Musukuma is under no illusion of the near-impossible challenge of facing Zamalek SC right in their backyard on Sunday. The CAF Confederation Cup group stage meeting will take place at the Cairo International Stadium.

The eight-time MTN Super League champions will kick-off their Group D assignments against the 2024 Confederation Cup kings before turning attention to another Egyptian side Al Masry SC and South African side Kaizer Chiefs.

Yet for Musukuma, facing Zamalek is not just about fighting for personal pride but an inspiration to up-and-coming players in Zambia.

“This game will be very hard, it being an away fixture,” the midfielder told ZESCO’s television.

“We know it will be difficult playing that side, but we have prepared very well. We will just follow the coaches’ instructions to believe we can get something from this game.

“This is a great opportunity and a dream come true to all the players playing on this big stage. It is even a big inspiration to those kids where I am coming from.”

The power men from Zambia overcame Jwaneng Galaxy from Botswana in the Confederation Cup second preliminary round to sneak through to the group stages.

Who is in ZESCO United’s travelling squad?

ZESCO have travelled with a strong squad comprising Zambian internationals such as defenders Kabaso Chongo, Shemmy Mayembe, Benedict Chepeshi. Mukusuma, evergreen Kelvin Kampamba and striker Alex Ngonga are the other notable star players.

The delegation for the Lusaka-based giants has since arrived in Dubai and will proceed to Cairo on Friday.

Earlier, United’s coach Emamnuel Siwale expressed excitement about the prospect of facing some of the best clubs on the continent, saying: “It’s an interesting draw, and we’re looking forward to the challenge. ZESCO United is among the best teams in Africa, and we need to prove it on the pitch.”

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