Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant is gearing up for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with renewed enthusiasm and a firm resolve to deliver results. The Israeli coach, who successfully guided Zambia to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast after missing out on three consecutive tournaments, expressed his excitement at the pressure that comes with coaching the national team.
Grant, known for his calm yet determined approach, stated that he thrives under pressure. “I never ignore the pressure. I love pressure. Pressure will push you to achieve things,” Grant said during the unveiling of the 24-man squad for Zambia’s upcoming 2025 Morocco Group G qualifiers. Zambia is set to face Ivory Coast in Ndola next Friday and Sierra Leone on November 19.
The coach also emphasized that while the squad for the upcoming matches is finalized, there is still room for players who have not been selected. “The door is still open to players who will show quality, passion, and desire to play for the national team,” he added.
A key part of Grant’s strategy involves balancing the need for experience with the infusion of new talent. However, the squad announcement was notable for the absence of some high-profile players, including England-based striker Patson Daka of Leicester City, Saudi Arabia-based Fashion Sakala, and Italy-based Kingston Mutandwa. Grant reassured the public that injuries were part of the game and that he had selected players capable of stepping up to the challenge.
“I have always stated that I want players to give me a selection headache,” Grant remarked, reflecting his desire for a competitive and motivated squad.
The squad also welcomed back Lameck Banda, who missed the back-to-back matches against Chad last month, and veteran defender Stophila Sunzu, who has returned after an extended absence.
As Zambia enters the qualifiers, they are currently second in Group G with seven points, trailing defending champions Ivory Coast, who lead the group with nine points. Sierra Leone sits in third with four points, while Chad is at the bottom with two points.
Looking ahead, Grant expressed his commitment to securing back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations qualifications for Zambia, an achievement that would mark a significant milestone for both him and the Chipolopolo. “I like history. I hope to get a back-to-back Africa Cup qualification,” he said.
The coach also outlined his broader goals for the team, including the importance of creating opportunities for local talent and maintaining a competitive squad with a blend of both local and international players.
Full Squad for Africa Cup Qualifiers:
- Goalkeepers: Toaster Nsabata (ZESCO United), Lawrence Mulenga (Power Dynamos), Charles Kalumba (Red Arrows)
- Defenders: Benedict Chepeshi, Tandi Mwape (Both ZESCO United), Gift Mpande (Hapoel Rishona Lezion- Israel), Stophila Sunzu (Changchun Yatai FC – China), Kabaso Chongo (Kabwe Warriors), Frankie Chisenga Musonda (AYR – Scotland), Obino Chisala (Costa Do Sol – Mozambique), Kebson Kamanga (Red Arrows)
- Midfielders: Benson Sakala (Boleslav Mlada – Czech Republic), Golden Mafwenta (FC Metalist 1925- Czech Republic), Emmanuel Banda (Al Tai – FC Saudi Arabia), Klings Kangwa (Hapoel Be’er Sheva – Israel), Joshua ‘Budo’ Mutale (Simba SC -Tanzania)
- Strikers: Joseph Sabobo Banda (FC Zurich – Switzerland), Kelvin Mubanga Kampamba (Al Nasr SC -Libya), Kennedy Musonda, Clatous Chota Chama (Both Young Africans), Lameck Banda (Lecce – Italy), Songa Chipyoka (Petah Tikva -Israel), Francisco Mwepu (Cadiz – Spain), Ricky Banda (Red Arrows)
As the Chipolopolo prepare for the critical qualifiers, Coach Grant remains focused on steering the team to greater heights, aiming for a strong performance in Morocco and beyond.
