After missing out on the last three editions of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Zambia secured a hard-earned point in their 1-1 group F opener against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
A tasty affair is on the horizon when they take on their neighbors, Tanzania, who lost their opening Group F game against Morocco 3-0.
Tanzania has not beaten Zambia in any competition in the last 17 years, and Chipolopolo will aim to capitalize on this to increase their chances of proceeding to the next round.
BolaNews highlights four key things Avram Grant should consider in tonight’s match.
Avram Grant must go for an outright win
The Chipolopolo Boys need only a win tonight to have a realistic chance of making the knockout stage. Grant should not settle for a tie or a loss; this is a must-win. It will get tough in the final group stage matches especially since they will face Africa’s number one, Morocco.
Sunzu will need help
Stopilla Sunzu’s experience is crucial; he demonstrated it in the first match against DR Congo. There is no doubt that the 34-year-old’s experience at the back will come in handy again tonight, but Grant should not rely solely on him. If Zambia wants to deny Tanzania a goal, all the Chipolopolo defenders should emulate Sunzu’s level of concentration.
Lameck Banda and Clatous Chama could be the weapon
Zambia lacked creativity against DR Congo, as the Chipolopolo were forced to spend nearly the whole match in their own half. Zambia should attack Tanzania aggressively, and that will require US Lecce winger Lameck Banda’s pace and dribbling abilities. This will also give space for Patson Daka and Fashion Sakala to be adventurous. Benching him will be a grave mistake.
Clastous Chama, on the other hand, plays in Tanzania and is well-versed in navigating Taifa Stars’ defense. Grant will need the Simba SC star in the midfield to win tonight.
Grant should have plan B
In the game against DR Congo, Avram Grant was reticent to make replacements. Naturally, the game was intense, and making substitutions may have had a detrimental or positive impact on the game’s rhythm. However, he will need to be a little daring against Tanzania and make effective substitutions if necessary. If given the opportunity to play, Edward Chilufya, Kelvin Kampamba, Larry Bwalya, Kennedy Musonda, and others on the bench might perform a miracle.
