The Chipolopolo Boys are gracing the Africa Cup of Nations (AfCON) in back-to-back editions for the first time in a decade. Avram Grant’s side defeated Ivory Coast 1-0 at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium courtesy of a glorious strike by Kennedy Musonda in the 43rd minute.

BolaNews delves into the match ratings for the Copper Bullet stars who downed the African champions on Friday.

GOALKEEPER

Toaster Nsabata (8/10) – Nsabata came up big against the Cote d’Ivoire, producing a world-class fingertip save in the 56th minute to keep them at bay.

DEFENDERS

Gift Mphande (7/10) – It was no-nonsense defending for the Israeli-based man who gave the visitors a tough time on the wing.

Stopilla Sunzu (7/10) – Sunzu pocketed Ivorian striker Jean Phillipe Krasso, who gave the 2012 AfCON winner a run for his money in the reverse fixture.

Kabaso Chongo (8/10) – Chongo has been arguably Zambia’s most consistent player in these 2025 AfCON qualifiers.

Obino Chisala (7/10) – Chisala stood his ground against Ivory Coast’s widemen. Despite playing deeper than usual, he combined well with Zambia’s attackers.

MIDFIELDERS

Kelvin Kapumbu (7/10) – The midfielder returned to Zambia’s starting XI, playing in the base of midfield.

Emmanuel Banda (7/10) – He provided attacking threat with his thumping strikes from range.

Kings Kangwa (8/10) – Kangwa created three clear-cut chances against the African champions, alongside unleashing assist provider Joseph Sabobo Banda.

FORWARDS

Kelvin Kampamba (7/10) – His flamboyant performance on the wing was cut short as he exited the pitch at halftime.

Joseph Sabobo Banda (8/10): The youngster bagged his first assist for the senior Chipolopolo team when he cut the ball back to Kennedy Musonda, who fired home the winner.

Kennedy Musonda (8/10)– Three goals in five AfCON qualification matches for Musonda, who expertly dispatched his shot into the roof of the net.

SUBSTITUTES

Clatous Chota Chama (6/10): The Yanga SC playmaker replaced Chipolopolo skipper Kelvin Kampamba in the second proceeding.

Frankie Musonda and Golden Mafwenta (N/A): The Copper Bullets duo came off the bench late on to cement the win.

COACH

Avram Grant (8/10): The Copper Bullets came to the party for Avram Grant, who has now led them to another AfCON tournament under his stewardship.