Zambia’s Chipolopolo will go all out for victory when they face Morocco’s Atlas Lions in their CHAN 2024 Group A encounter at Nyayo National Stadium this afternoon at 14:00 GMT.
The team, led by head coach Avram Grant, is determined to claim its first win of the tournament after failing to find the net in their opening two fixtures against DR Congo and Angola. Those results have left Zambia in a must-win situation to strengthen their chances of progressing to the quarter-finals, with the group standings still wide open.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Grant stressed that the squad had intensified preparations for the decisive clash.
“We didn’t want to lose both matches, but that’s part of the game. We focus on our team, not on our opponents,” Grant explained. “Sometimes you lose, sometimes you draw. We won’t copy Morocco’s style; we will play in a way that suits us. We respect Morocco — they are a good side — but we will stick to our own plan.”
The experienced coach admitted that despite their struggles in front of goal, the Chipolopolo have been creating opportunities.
“There’s no such thing as a perfect match. We created chances, but these things happen,” he continued. “We’ll do everything we can to win. We need to have a winning mentality and show character after these two disappointing results. I hope the players respond well.”
Grant’s words reflect the urgency in the Zambian camp. With two defeats behind them, their path to the knockout stage now depends heavily on securing three points against a Moroccan side that has looked sharp in the competition. A victory would not only revive Zambia’s campaign but also provide a significant morale boost ahead of their final group match.
The Chipolopolo’s preparations have been centred on sharpening attacking play while maintaining defensive discipline, as they aim to balance caution with ambition.
Morocco’s technical style and clinical finishing are well known, but Grant remains confident that his side’s tactical adjustments will give them a competitive edge.
Group A remains unpredictable, with no team yet guaranteed a place in the quarter-finals. This means the stakes are high for both sides, and any slip-up could prove costly in the race for qualification.
For Zambia, this is not just about points — it is about making a statement on the continental stage after a challenging start to the tournament.
The Nyayo National Stadium is expected to provide a lively atmosphere for the encounter, with Zambian fans eager to see their team respond to the setbacks of the past week.
Grant’s call for character and resilience has resonated with the players, who are fully aware that their CHAN 2024 ambitions hinge on this result.
Kick-off is set for 14:00 GMT, with the Chipolopolo determined to seize the moment and keep their hopes alive in what promises to be a fiercely contested Group A showdown.
