By Kennedy Gondwe BBC Sport, Lusaka

Chris Katongo has been promoted by the Zambian army

The Zambian army has promoted Chipolopolo captain Christopher Katongo to sergeant from corporal in honour of the hat-trick that he scored against South Africa on Sunday.

The midfielder's three goals helped the Chipolopolo beat South Africa 3-1 on Sunday a result that saw Zambia qulaify for the African Cup of Nations finals in Ghana in January.

Katongo's new rank was conferred on him at Lusaka's Arackan barracks on Tuesday.

"I'm very happy, I want to thank the army for recognising my efforts," he shortly before returning to Denmark where he plays for first division side Brondby.

"I'll continue working hard and do Zambia proud."

Zambia Army spokesperson Colonel Dan Chambaila told BBC Sport. "We want to encourage our sportsmen and women.

"The commander felt that as a way of congratulating Katongo, he should be promoted, he has done us proud.