Grant Looks for the Long Haul as he picks provisional Zambia CHAN 2025 squad, and fixtures ; Zambia’s journey at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) begins with high stakes and an even higher level of ambition. Coach Avram Grant, never one to shy away from a challenge, has called it what it is — “a tough, tough group” — but insists the team won’t be intimidated.
“So what? Our target is to be tough to the other teams,” Grant declares.
CHAN 2025 Group A: No Room to Breathe
Zambia has been drawn into Group A — arguably the group of death — alongside Congo DR, Angola, Morocco, and host nation Kenya.
- August 7 – Congo DR vs Zambia
- August 10 – Zambia vs Angola
- August 14 – Morocco vs Zambia
- August 17 – Zambia vs Kenya
The tournament itself kicks off on August 2 and will run until August 30, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Grant’s Vision: Beyond Just Winning
According to himself, Grant’s approach isn’t just about lifting a trophy in August. He wants more — a winning culture, player development, and laying down long-term foundations.
“I don’t think the opponent is important. It is more important what we will do. We want to develop these players. We want to create a team. We want to create a winning mentality.”
He adds:
“I came to Zambia to do something for the long term, not only for the short term.”
Players to Watch
The 31-man provisional squad has a rich blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting young talents.
Between the Posts
- Francis Mwansa (Zanaco) brings composure and calm.
- Willard Mwanza (Power Dynamos) could stake his claim with sharp reflexes.
Rock-Solid Defense
- Kabaso Chongo and Benedict Chepeshi (both Zesco United) anchor the backline with experience.
- Young blood like Mathews Banda (Nkana) and Killian Kanguluma (Kabwe Warriors) offer energy and versatility.
Midfield Engines
- Prince Mumba (Power Dynamos) remains a key driver in the middle, combining control with attacking runs.
- Rally Bwalya (Napsa Stars) and Kelvin Kampamba (Zesco United) are playmakers with flair and vision.
Upfront Firepower
- Andrew Phiri (MUZA) and Evans Kayombo (Napsa Stars) offer pace and precision.
- Charles Zulu (Nkana) returns as one of Zambia’s most naturally gifted attackers.
There’s also rising talent from lesser-known clubs like Kenan Phiri (Makeni All Stars) and Kelvin Mwanza (MUZA FC) — players Grant sees as future exports to stronger leagues.
Eyes on the Prize – And Beyond
CHAN is not just a tournament — it’s a shop window. Grant hopes it opens doors for local players to break into foreign leagues where their talents can mature.
“We want to create a pathway,” he emphasized. “These players deserve the chance to play in competitive leagues abroad.”
As Zambia prepares to face the giants in Group A, the message is clear: no fear, just purpose. The Copper Bullets aim to fire — not only for CHAN glory but to build something lasting in Zambian football.
