By Bola Yapa Zed | 29th October 2025
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has confirmed that it has mutually separated with Chipolopolo head coach Avram Grant, bringing an end to the Israeli tactician’s two-year reign in charge of the Zambia Men’s National Football Team.
The decision, officially announced through a press statement released on Tuesday, comes after a period of underwhelming performances that saw Zambia struggle in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, despite earlier success in securing back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifications.
Details of the Separation
FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shepande said the decision was reached after mutual discussions between the association and Grant.
“The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has agreed to mutually separate with Zambia Senior Men’s National Team coach Avram Grant,” said Shepande. “The two parties agreed to mutually separate with FAZ wishing Mr. Grant the best of luck in his future endeavours.”
Grant, who was appointed on 22nd December 2022 on a two-year deal, guided the Chipolopolo to two consecutive AFCON qualifications, marking Zambia’s return to continental competition after a long absence.
However, Zambia’s recent performances including their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and a series of disappointing results in competitive fixtures increased pressure on the 69-year-old coach, leading to the mutual decision to part ways.
Grant’s Legacy and Mixed Record
Avram Grant’s tenure began with optimism. Under his guidance, Zambia ended their long AFCON qualification drought, rekindling national pride and optimism in the Chipolopolo setup. His experience having previously managed Ghana and Chelsea brought tactical structure and international exposure to the squad.
But his time was also marked by inconsistency. Despite flashes of brilliance in certain matches, Zambia struggled for rhythm and identity, particularly in attack. The 1–0 defeat to Niger in Ndola during the final World Cup qualifier proved to be the final turning point, prompting widespread calls for change from fans, former players, and football analysts.
FAZ’s Next Step: What Lies Ahead
With the Morocco 2025 AFCON just months away, FAZ now faces the urgent task of identifying Grant’s successor who can stabilize the team and restore belief among supporters. Zambia has been drawn in Group A alongside Morocco, Mali, and Comoros, a challenging group that demands both tactical discipline and mental strength.
FAZ has assured stakeholders that more details regarding the technical bench and future roadmap will be communicated in due course.
Avram Grant’s departure closes a significant chapter in Zambia’s recent football history one that brought both relief and reflection. While he succeeded in guiding the Chipolopolo back to AFCON, the next phase will require a fresh vision, rooted in consistency, youth development, and belief in local coaching capacity.
For now, the focus shifts to rebuilding confidence and preparing effectively for Morocco 2025, where Zambia will look to reignite the glory that once defined their golden era.
