The Chipolopolo Boys kick off their 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign this afternoon with a crucial Group A clash against DR Congo at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi.
Led by head coach Avram Grant, Zambia will be aiming to uphold a proud tradition of winning their opening CHAN fixtures. The Chipolopolo have never lost an opening match at the tournament, registering victories against Côte d’Ivoire (3–0 in 2009), Zimbabwe (1–0 in 2016), Uganda (3–1 in 2018), and Tanzania (2–0 in 2020).
“We want to maintain the tradition, yes,” Grant said during the pre-match briefing. “But more importantly, we want to see improvement and strong mentality. The boys are ready, and they know what is at stake. CHAN is a different level of football, and our first match is a chance to set the tone.”
Zambia’s record at the group stage is impressive — unbeaten in 12 CHAN group matches (W6 D6) — a streak Grant hopes to extend against a Congolese side that is wounded but dangerous.
DR Congo, two-time CHAN champions, suffered a 1-0 defeat to co-hosts Kenya in their opening match, their fifth consecutive match without a win in the competition (D2 L3). However, they have never lost their first two group games at a single CHAN edition, meaning Zambia will have to be at their sharpest.
Captain Kabaso Chongo knows just how tricky the encounter could be, but believes the team has what it takes to deliver a result.
“The game will be tough but we are looking forward to it,” said Chongo. “I know a lot of Congolese players and their coach. We just have to work hard, believe in ourselves and fight for the win. We know why we are here.”
Chongo is expected to marshal the backline alongside Kelvin Kapumbu, while Kelvin Mubanga Kampamba and Andrew Phiri will shoulder the creative and attacking responsibilities.
This marks Zambia’s fifth appearance at CHAN, with their best showing coming in 2009, when they finished third. With Grant at the helm and a well-prepared local-based squad, the goal is clear: go further and compete for the title.
Kick-off is at 15h00 CAT and the match will be broadcast live on ZNBC TV1 and SuperSport (channel 227).
