Pre-match quotes: Zambia vs Sudan

Aggrey Chiyangi (Assistant Coach, Zambia)

As the tournament advances, the games become tougher and we have to encourage the players to be stronger and stronger. They have to adjust and get stronger in the mind. Physically, the players are fit and we (technical team) have to work on their mental strength.

Marrakech is like our hometown and we are very comfortable playing here. The players are used to the climatic conditions and the pitch, but it doesn’t give us automatic victory.

Sudan will be no pushovers and we have to work harder to get past them This is the knockout stage and it means you have to give your all.

Many people rank Zambai favourites, but regardless of that perception we have to work hard to ensure it doesn’t get into the mind of the players.

Simon Silwimba is suspended but I don’t think it will affect our chances.

Augustine Mulenga (Forward Zambia)

As players, we are ready for the game against Sudan. We have done our homework and have an idea how the Sudanese play. We know their weaknesses and hope to capitalize on that to emerge victorious. We will work hard to get victory and progress to the next round.

Zdravko Logarusic (Head Coach, Sudan)

Sudan has surprised a lot of people in this competition. Before the start, we were the lowest ranked team and nobody gave us a chance. Despite reaching the quarter finals, many others are still not taking us serious. We are ready to face Zambia even today or now.

We are not under pressure and will do the talking on the pitch. I’m optimistic that the players will give 150 per cent and won’t disappoint the Sudanese population.

Zambia is one of the best teams at the tournament, and one of four teams tipped as favourites. They are organised and play together as a team. Most players are from two clubs (Zesco and Zanaco) and they have the perfect mix.

I’m just five weeks into the Sudan job and I’m still learning and trying to gel. I’m not a magician but I can see that we are on the right path. Before the tournament, Sudan was ranked 136 th in the world, and has moved 21 places up to 115th, which is great for the team.

Mohamed Taher (Captain, Sudan)

Zambia will be different than the previous games at the group stage. We have surprised most of the teams with our tactics and it will be no different against Zambia on Saturday. We are hoping to start with an attacking spirit and the players are poised to win and advance to the semi finals. We will do everything possible within our right to win the game.