Avram Grant Praises Team’s Character in 3-2 Win Over Sierra Leone
Chipolopolo Boys coach Avram Grant has commended his players for their resilience and fighting spirit after a dramatic 3-2 victory against Sierra Leone in the 2025 African Cup of Nations qualifier held in Ndola. Despite conceding twice, the Zambian team showed great character to secure all three points.
Match Recap:
Striker Kennedy Musonda opened the scoring for Zambia, giving the home side a 1-0 lead in the first half. However, Sierra Leone managed to equalize twice, pushing the game to the brink. Kelvin Mubanga Kampamba restored Zambia’s lead in the second half, only for Sierra Leone to level the score again shortly after. The Chipolopolo Boys continued to press forward, and Kings Kangwa’s stunning free-kick in the 85th minute ultimately sealed the win for Zambia.
“It was a great win, really great win. We played very good football,” Avram Grant expressed with relief during the post-match interview. He highlighted the team’s mentality as a key factor in their success, noting that they managed to respond swiftly to Sierra Leone’s goals. “We created chances, but more importantly, we showed great mentality because after they equalised 1-1, then 2-2, two minutes after every goal we scored, but we scored,” Grant said.
Grant, who previously managed Chelsea and West Ham, continued to praise his players, saying, “I know many teams that can break, but we continued playing and played well. The players are showing a lot of character, fighting spirit, and commitment, and I am very happy about that.”
Group Standings:
Following the win, Zambia moves to second place in their group with 3 points, trailing leaders Ivory Coast, who have 6 points after a 2-0 victory over Chad. Chad and Sierra Leone remain at the bottom of the group with 1 point each.
Zambia’s quest to qualify for AFCON 2025 continues next month with crucial back-to-back fixtures against Chad. The Copper Bullets will aim to build on their momentum and secure maximum points to strengthen their position in the group.
