Lwandamina blames Zambia defeat to lack of concentration

Zambia national team head coach George Lwandamina admitted that conceding an early goal disrupted Zambia’s game plan and made it difficult for his side to settle as they suffered friendly defeat against Argentina.

The Chipolopolo went down 5-0 against the world champions in an international friendly played at the iconic La Bombonera in Buenos Aires.

Amazing performance by Argentina as they beat Zambia 5-0 pic.twitter.com/2qe8mHmFnv

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Lionel Messi scored one goal and set up another as the Albiceleste played their game on home soil before launching the defence of their 2026 FIFA World Cup crown.

Early goals led to Zambia defeat

“We conceded very early and that made things difficult for us. Playing against a highly tactical side like Argentina, you need to be organised from the start,” Lwandamina said as quoted by FAZ Media.

The Chipolopolo trainer, however, felt the scoreline did not fully reflect the balance of play especially that Zambia had spells where they managed to come out of their shell and threaten the Argentine goal.

“There were moments where we showed character and created some threats, but we need to improve our organisation, stay compact and be more aggressive so that we can force mistakes from opponents.”

Lwandamina cited individual errors as a major factor in the defeat, stating that the team gifted the hosts goals.

“At this level, you cannot afford to make such mistakes because you will be punished. These are important lessons for us going forward.”

Argentina very tactical side

Chipolopolo captain Fashion Sakala backed the coach’s sentiments and accepted that the team’s tactical approach was undone by the early goal.

“Our plan was to contain them in the opening stages, but conceding in the third minute disturbed our structure. They are a very technical side and that early goal made things difficult for us,” Sakala said.

Debutant striker Chanka Zimba described the experience as a proud moment despite the result.

“It was exciting for me to represent my country in such a high-profile match. The atmosphere was great and we showed some character. We just have to take the lessons from this game going forward,” Zimba said.

Another debutant, Tinkler Sinkala, said the team must always be prepared to perform under any conditions.

“As players, we must be ready to play in any environment. The crowd was intense, but that is part of the game and we have to handle it,” Sinkala said.

Just before kick-off in Buenos Aires, FAZ President Keith Mweemba shared a warm moment with Argentina’s General Secretary of Selections Jorge Miadosqui, as the two exchanged gifts and pleasantries.

It was a simple but meaningful gesture which reflected the growing bond between Zambian football and the South American giants.