Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant is optimistic about his team’s prospects as they prepare to host Sierra Leone in a crucial Morocco 2025 Group H Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Tuesday. The match is set to kick off at 21:00 hours.
During Monday’s pre-match press conference, Grant acknowledged the team’s defeat to Ivory Coast in their opening qualifier last Friday but emphasized that the objective remains unchanged. “We need to take points and win the next game against Sierra Leone. Although we lost to a very good team, the players showed great commitment and fighting spirit,” Grant said.
He expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform better at home, citing the enthusiastic support from local fans as a key factor. “Returning home is a boost for us. The support here has been incredible, and it’s like having an additional player on the field. In past games, the fans have rallied behind us even when we were trailing, and that support has been crucial,” Grant added.
Captain Lubambo Musonda echoed Grant’s sentiments, stating that playing at home provides a significant advantage. “We are ready for a good game. Playing at home should give us an edge, and despite recent challenges in collecting points, we are looking forward to a positive outcome,” Musonda said.
Grant also welcomed back midfielder Kelvin Kampamba, who had been on compassionate leave following the death of his mother, and Red Arrows striker Ricky Banda, who has been included in the squad. “Kelvin is an important player for us, and although we missed him against Ivory Coast, he has returned with renewed commitment,” Grant noted.
The match against Sierra Leone will be a pivotal moment for the Chipolopolo as they aim to secure a spot in the AFCON tournament for the second consecutive time.
