Zambia’s CHAN 2024 hopes fading after 2-1 defeat to Angola

Zambia’s hopes of progressing at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 hang by a thread after neighbours Angola staged an inspired comeback to seal a 2-1 victory in Nairobi on Sunday.

The defeat leaves the Chipolopolo bottom of Group A without a point after two successive losses. They now must win both remaining games while hoping results elsewhere go in their favour.

For Angola, the win moves them into second place in Group A, behind hosts Kenya, who earlier edged Morocco 1-0. Kenya top the group with seven points from three games, while Angola have four. Morocco and Congo DR, level on points, occupy third and fourth place respectively.

Coach Avram Grant made several changes for Zambia following their 2-0 loss to Congo DR, but familiar problems with cohesion and decision-making persisted.

Zambia dominated large spells of the game and finally broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute when a Kelvin Mubanga free-kick was spilled by Angola goalkeeper Neblu, allowing defender Dominic Chanda to tap home.

However, Angola coach Pedro Gonçalves responded by introducing João Chingando Manha, popularly known as Kaporal, who made an immediate impact, equalising six minutes later. Kaporal then sealed the win in the 86th minute after capitalising on a loose touch from Zambian defender Killian Kanguluma inside the box to complete his brace.

Zambia pressed for an equaliser, but Angola’s resolute defence held firm.

The Chipolopolo face Morocco next on Tuesday, while Angola take on Congo DR in what could be a decisive battle for qualification.

Contributed by SAMUEL LUKHANDA

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