With the group stage clock ticking down, Morocco and Zambia head into Thursday’s showdown at Nyayo National Stadium knowing that only victory will keep their African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 dreams alive.
For Morocco, a shock defeat to hosts Kenya has left the defending champions teetering on the brink. Zambia’s journey has been equally painful, with back-to-back losses to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola leaving them bottom of Group A.
Grant: ‘We need a winning mentality’
Zambia head coach Avram Grant has called for character and resilience from his Chipolopolo charges.
“We didn’t want to lose the two games but it is part of the game. We are concentrating on our team, not our opponents,” said the former Ghana and Chelsea boss. “We will not copy Morocco but play something that is good for us. We respect Morocco and they play good.”
Grant admits his team’s margin for error is now zero.
“We will do everything to win tomorrow. We need to have the winning mentality, show character after the two losses, and we hope the players react well.”
A win would move Zambia off the foot of the table and keep them in contention for a quarter-final spot heading into the group’s final match day.
Sektioui: ‘We must honor the national flag’
On the opposite bench, Moroccan coach Tarik Sektioui is also in a must-win situation. His Atlas Lions are fourth in the group and can ill-afford another setback.
“We have learned the necessary lessons after our defeat against Kenya and we are now focused on a victory against Zambia to take the three points,” Sektioui said.
The Moroccan tactician has tightened tactics and addressed defensive lapses in the build-up.
“In modern football there are no weak teams anymore. The only difference is the mindset and the mentality to win.”
Tactical Battle: Zambia’s weak right flank vs. Morocco’s finishing woes
Zambia’s defensive frailty down the right wing has been costly, with four goals conceded from that side so far. Morocco will likely target that weakness, especially with overlapping runs from full-backs like Youssef Belaamari.
However, Morocco’s challenge lies in finishing. Against Kenya, their attacking build-up faltered in the final pass or shot. Wide players will need to deliver precise balls into the box to break Zambia’s resistance.
Players know what’s at stake
Morocco’s Amine Souane insists the team understands the magnitude of the moment.
“Preparations are going well and the players are aware of the responsibility they have. In the match against Kenya, we lacked the finishing touch, but the defeat is now behind us.”
One match, two fates
The equation is simple: win and the dream survives; lose and the tournament ends. For Zambia, it’s a chance to rewrite a faltering campaign into one of resilience. For Morocco, it’s about restoring pride and proving that one stumble does not define a champion.
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