Zesco United coach George Lwandamina said on Wednesday his side should play like "champions" when they face Zamalek in a Champions league group stage game on Friday.

Zamalek will host the Zambian side at Cairo stadium as both sides aim to boost their chances of reaching the knockout stage.

Zesco, who were held to 1-1 draw at home by Zamalek in their previous game, are third in Group A with two points, two behind second-placed Zamalek and five behind leaders TP Mazembe of the DR Congo.

A loss on Friday will dent Zesco's hopes and give Zamalek a considerable advantage with two games remaining.

"We have a crucial game against Zamalek on Friday that will determine whether our dreams to qualify to the next stage are still alive," Lwandamina was quoted as saying by Zambian football website.

"Zesco United is a big team that can raise in the most difficult circumstances. However, we have to play like champions if we have to qualify."

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