Chipolopolo Coach Draws Positives from Malawi Tournament
Following Zambia’s participation in the Malawi Invitational Tournament, Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant has expressed satisfaction with the opportunity it provided to experiment with new strategies and assess emerging talent.
The tournament saw Zambia secure a 2-2 draw against Zimbabwe and a 2-1 victory over hosts Malawi, prompting Grant to reflect positively on the team’s performance and hint at forthcoming changes, including in the leadership role.
Grant emphasized the significance of the tournament in the team’s preparation for upcoming qualifiers for both the World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations.
He highlighted the need for thorough preparation, particularly with the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers looming within a tight three-month window.
Speaking on the tournament, Grant commended the players for their adaptability to different playing styles and the opportunities afforded to new faces within the squad.
He stressed the importance of players’ behavior both on and off the pitch, underlining the responsibility of representing the nation.
While acknowledging some defensive lapses in the first game, Grant lauded the team’s improvement in subsequent matches and emphasized the learning experience gained from each fixture.
Grant reiterated his commitment to building a deep squad of talented players, emphasizing that no one has a guaranteed place in the national team.
He praised the dedication and performance of both local and overseas-based players and affirmed that selection would be based on merit and performance.
Furthermore, Grant hinted at potential changes in the team’s leadership structure, indicating a reassessment of the captaincy ahead of upcoming assignments.
He emphasized the qualities required of a captain, emphasizing the importance of leading by example and demonstrating a strong commitment to the national team.
