Zambia confirmed their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a hard-fought 1-0 win over reigning champions Ivory Coast at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Friday night. The narrow victory solidified the Chipolopolo’s qualification and ended the Elephants’ unbeaten run in the campaign.
Despite a bright start by Ivory Coast, who controlled possession in the opening 10 minutes, Zambia gradually grew into the game.
The Elephants posed an early threat, with Stopilla Sunzu making a crucial block in the 20th minute to deny a dangerous attack inside the Zambian penalty area.
The decisive moment came in the 43rd minute when Joseph Banda delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Kennedy Musonda.
Musonda showed composure and precision, rifling the ball past Ivory Coast goalkeeper Yahia Fofana to give Zambia the lead just before halftime.
The Elephants came out strongly in the second half, dominating possession and forcing Zambia onto the defensive.
Despite their relentless pressure, Ivory Coast struggled to break down a resolute Zambian defense, marshaled by veteran Sunzu.
As the game progressed, the Chipolopolo continued to pose a threat on the counterattack.
In the 79th minute, Zambia came close to doubling their advantage when Musonda found himself in a one-on-one situation with Fofana.
However, the Ivorian goalkeeper produced a stunning save to keep his side in the contest.
Ivory Coast pushed forward in search of an equalizer during the closing stages, but Zambia remained disciplined and resolute.
Late substitutions by coach Avram Grant added fresh legs to the Zambian side, helping them see out a tense final few minutes.
The final whistle sparked celebrations in Ndola as Zambia secured the three points needed to confirm their spot in Morocco for the 2025 tournament.
Zambia: Nsabata, Sabobo (Mafwenta 92’), Kangwa, Kampamba (Chama 46’), Kapumbu, Chongo, Mphande, Banda, Sunzu, Chisala, K. Musonda (F. Musonda 89’)
Ivory Coast: Y. Fofana, Operi, Ndicka, Diomande, Singo, S. Fofana (Traore 67’), Aholou (Konate 85’), Kessie, Adingra (Boga 46’), Krasso (Bayo 67’), Guessand (Diakite 46’)
With this win, Zambia joins the list of teams already qualified for the tournament.
The result highlights the Chipolopolo’s resurgence under Grant and cements their reputation as a force to reckon with in African football.
Ivory Coast, despite the loss, remains in a strong position to progress as they focus on their remaining group fixtures.
