CHAN 2024: Zambia and Angola set for high-stakes Group A clash in Nairobi

Zambia and Angola will go head-to-head this Sunday, 10 August 2025, in a crucial Group A fixture at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

The match, kicking off at 15:00 GMT at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium, holds significant implications for both sides’ chances of reaching the quarter-finals.

Neither team has managed to register a win so far in the competition, making this encounter a must-win for each. A defeat for either side could effectively end their campaign, adding further pressure to an already tense and finely poised fixture.

Zambia Seeking Urgent Redemption

Zambia opened their CHAN 2024 journey with a disappointing 2-0 defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo. While the Chipolopolo showed some attacking promise, their defensive vulnerabilities were clearly exposed.

Missed opportunities in the final third compounded their troubles, leaving them at the bottom of the group and in urgent need of a result.

Head coach Mwape Musonda will be looking for a significant response from his squad, particularly in tightening the backline and maintaining composure in front of goal.

The team is expected to focus on creating better fluidity in midfield while leaning on key players such as striker Andrew Phiri, whose ability to threaten in the box could prove decisive.

Angola’s Margin for Error Narrows

Angola’s campaign has been equally frustrating. The Palancas Negras began with a 2-0 loss to tournament favourites Morocco and followed it up with a 1-1 draw against hosts Kenya.

With just a single point from two matches, they sit precariously above Zambia in the standings but know that anything less than victory could prove fatal to their hopes of progressing.

Their performance against Kenya highlighted both strengths and weaknesses: while Jo Paciencia’s goal offered a glimmer of hope, lapses in concentration allowed their opponents to level.

Head coach Pedro Gonçalves will be under pressure to address those defensive frailties and deliver a more balanced performance.

A Clash of Styles and Strategies

Sunday’s match is expected to be a battle of contrasting approaches. Zambia may opt for a more aggressive attacking game, pushing for early goals to seize momentum, while Angola could focus on structured build-up play and swift counter-attacks — a style that has brought them some success in recent years.

Both sides are likely to make tactical adjustments, with changes in personnel and formation possible as coaches look for the right combination.

The midfield battle will be key, as controlling possession and dictating tempo could unlock chances in what is expected to be a tightly contested affair.

Players to Watch

Andrew Phiri remains Zambia’s most consistent attacking outlet, and his movement in and around the penalty area could cause significant problems for the Angolan defence.

On the other side, Jo Paciencia’s eye for goal and ability to exploit space behind defenders makes him a central figure in Angola’s hopes.

Quarter-Final Spot on the Line

With the group stage nearing its conclusion, this fixture is likely to determine which side retains hope of qualification. A draw may leave both teams vulnerable depending on other results, while a win would place the victor firmly back in contention.

As tension mounts in Nairobi, Zambia and Angola prepare for what could be their most defining moment of CHAN 2024. The stakes are clear: survive and advance, or face an early exit.