Chad eye victory in crucial AFCON qualifier against Zambia, says Coach Kevin Nicaise
Chad’s head coach, Kevin Nicaise, has expressed optimism ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Zambia, following their hard-fought 0-0 draw at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. Nicaise believes his team is in a strong position to claim all three points in the return leg, which will be played on Tuesday in Yaoundé.
Reflecting on the stalemate in Zambia, Nicaise praised his players for their resilience under challenging conditions, emphasizing that a draw on Zambian soil was a positive result for his squad.
We wanted to win to take second place in the group, but if you analyze the game, a 0-0 away from home, in Zambia, with the conditions, the supporters, and everything, it’s a good point,” Nicaise remarked.
The Belgian-born coach was particularly impressed with his team’s fighting spirit.
We were strong, and I am really proud of my players and the way they fought today.
We have things to improve, but this point gives us a good base for the future.
The mentality was fantastic, and it will give us confidence, especially with such a young team.”
Chad currently sits third in Group G, behind table-toppers Côte d’Ivoire and second-placed Zambia.
The draw in Zambia allowed them to edge closer to the Chipolopolo, setting the stage for a crucial encounter in Yaoundé.
Nicaise is hopeful that home advantage will play a significant role in securing a victory that could boost Chad’s chances of qualification.
“At home, we can have the advantage of the pitch and the supporters.
We are really asking our fans to come out and support us in this important match,” he said, highlighting the crucial role local fans will play in Tuesday’s showdown.
Although Zambia is ranked within the top 100 teams globally, Nicaise stressed that the game is far from decided.
Of course, Zambia is a top team, and we respect them, but every game has to be played.
We are going to give everything on Tuesday for our country.”
The goalless draw saw Zambia maintain their second spot in Group G with four points, while Chad remains in third place with two points.
Côte d’Ivoire comfortably leads the group with nine points after a commanding victory over Sierra Leone, who sit at the bottom with just one point.
As both teams prepare for the reverse fixture in Yaoundé, Nicaise remains confident that Chad can build on the momentum gained from the away draw.
It’s another game, another day—everything is open,” he added, underscoring the unpredictable nature of football and Chad’s determination to fight for a positive result.
Tuesday’s match promises to be a decisive encounter for both teams as they continue their quest for a spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament.