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RED Arrows coach Chisi Mbewe says his side is aiming to make the nation proud by reaching the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup this season.

Arrows begin their campaign on Saturday when they host Madagascar outfit FC Rouge in the first leg of the preliminary round at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

Should Arrows progress over two legs, they will advance to the second preliminary round, where another two-legged tie stands between them and the group stage.

“Another great opportunity and chance for us to participate in the Confederation Cup,” Mbewe said. “I think we have prepared so well and the team is ready and set going into this tournament. We know what is at stake.”

Mbewe said his side had prepared adequately and was ready for the challenge posed by the Malagasy side.

“Coming into this game, it is a very important game. The team looks good,” he said. “I think in the last international friendly that we had, the team looked set and sharp. Going into this game, we have to ensure that we fight so that we progress to the next stage.”

(Mwebantu, Friday, 4th September, 2026)