Accra Jan. 13, GNA - The Chipolopolo, Zambian national soccer team, arrived in Accra on Sunday evening for the 26th African Cup of Nations tournament, which kicks off from January 20 2008.

The 30-member team consisting of both players and officials including their coach Patrick Phiri was met at the Accra International Airport by Mr Stanley Adjiri Blankson, Chief Executive of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Dr Kofi Amoah.

Other officials who also welcomed the team included: Tony Baffoe, SOS FIFA Ambassador, Abedi Pele Goodwill Soccer Ambassador of Africa and Lepowura Alhaji M N D Jawula, Vice Chairman of the LOC. Mr Blanskon wished the team well and assured them of the country's great hospitality.

The Chipolopolo boys will base in Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region.