Many Zambian football fans may want to see Avram Grant step down, but the Israeli tactician has made it clear that he is not willing to walk away from his Chipolopolo project despite overseeing one of the worst FIFA World Cup qualifying runs in the nation’s history.
Zambia concluded their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign on Sunday with a disappointing 1–0 defeat to Niger at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. The result completed a painful double for the Menas, who had already beaten Zambia 2–1 in the reverse fixture played in Morocco.
The performances left much to be desired, raising serious concerns about the team’s readiness for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco this December.
Among the loudest voices calling for change is former Chipolopolo midfielder Clifford Mulenga, who took to Facebook to demand accountability from Grant.
“If his contract has a performance clause, let the FA suspend him,” Mulenga posted. “Contract review should start now. Brave decisions have to be made.”
Mulenga’s sentiments echo a growing section of fans on social media, many of whom believe the coach should step aside before AFCON.
However, when asked by Bola Yapa Zed about the increasing calls for his resignation, Grant responded in his usual sarcastic tone.
“What do you want me to answer? I lost what?” he said, seemingly dismissing the criticism.
Focus Now on AFCON – Grant
Despite the backlash, Grant insists that the team has improved under his leadership and that the focus is now fully on the AFCON.
Zambia has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros a challenging group, but one Grant remains confident about.
“I strongly believe that we have a strong team that can qualify from the group stages. This is the most important,” he said.
At the last AFCON, Zambia failed to progress beyond the group stage. Grant now finds himself under immense pressure — not just to restore pride, but to prove that he is still the right man to lead Chipolopolo forward.
With the nation divided, one thing is certain: AFCON 2025 will make or break Avram Grant.
