Coach Herve Renard says playing top ranked teams such as the 2002 Fifa World Cup semi-finalists is important for him and his bench because it helps them meet players to prepare for crucial international games.

Reigning African champions Zambia play two-time AFC Asian Champions South Korea’s Red Devils on Wednesday 15th August in Seoul.

South Korea is Asia’s most successful country at World Cup finals where they finished fourth in 2002 and have been to the finals of the global soccer festival an Asian record eight times.

While stressing that it will be a tough and challenging game against the Asian giants, Renard says he was relishing the test stressing that it provided a wonderful opportunity for his squad to meet as they look ahead to next month’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations final round qualifier against Uganda.

“Games like the one we’re playing against South Korea are very important for us because they are a real opportunity for me and my staff to meet with the players. All the Chipolopolo players are based outside and the only time we have to be with them before qualification games and tournaments is during games like these,” the winning coach of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations said.

He added: “this sort of friendly games which the federation has continued to arrange where we meet quality opposition is a real opportunity for us to improve in Africa and all round the world. It is very important for our competition and ensuring that we keep the high levels of competitiveness in the squad.”

Skipper Chris Katongo leads the African champions’ squad which Renard called for next Wednesday’s clash in Seoul.

The full squad:

Kennedy Mweene (GK), Kalililo Kakonje (GK), Davies Nkausu, Emmanuel Mbola, Chintu Kampamba, Aaron Katebe, Nyambe Mulenga, William Njobvu, Isaac Chansa, Joseph Sitali, Chisamba Lungu, Thomas Nyirenda, Noah Chivuta, Felix Katongo, Chris Katongo, James Chamanga, Jonas Sakuwaha, Emmanuel Mayuka, Roger Kola, Jacob Mulenga.