Chansa, who plays for Swedish club Helsingborgs, is optimistic of the Chipolopolo's chances despite being in a tough looking Group C alongside Cameroon, Sudan and reigning champions Egypt.

BBC: Zambia's Isaac Chansa

The Nations Cup finals start on 20 January and Cameroon are drawn in Group C with holders Egypt, Sudan and Zambia.

BBC: CHOOSE A SPORT

The members argued that the minister should share responsibility for the Pharaohs' failure to progress from Group C, where they finished third behind Cameroon and Algeria.

BBC: SPORT | Football | African | Pressure mounts on Egypt