Avram Grant Misses Key CHAN 2024 Press Conference Ahead of Zambia vs DR Congo Clash

Zambia national team head Avram Grant was a no-show at the scheduled press conference on Wednesday morning, causing the event to be abruptly cancelled after his assistant appeared in his place—contrary to CAF regulations.

The briefing, set for 11h45 at Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi, was meant to set the tone for Chipolopolo’s upcoming Group A clash against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Thursday.

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CAF rules mandate that the head coach must be present for all official pre-match media interactions. A last-minute substitution is not permitted unless the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is informed at least 24 hours in advance—something the Zambian delegation failed to do.

"This is unacceptable," said a top football official told Pulse Sports on phone.

"If the head coach is unable to attend due to illness or suspension, prior communication must be made. Sending an assistant without notice does not meet our professional standards."

The abrupt cancellation has sparked criticism from media personnel and observers, who say the move undermines the professionalism of the Zambian camp.

CAF rules, like those of many national football associations, designate the head coach as the primary spokesperson for the team. This ensures a consistent and authoritative message, especially in high-stakes competitions.

While assistant coaches, fitness trainers, or medical staff may occasionally address the media, such decisions must either be pre-approved or necessitated by circumstances such as illness or disciplinary bans. In this case, no such justification was officially provided by the Zambian team.

The incident is particularly disappointing given the high anticipation surrounding Zambia’s first game in Group A. With DR Congo already nursing a 1-0 defeat to hosts Kenya, Zambia’s opener is seen as a critical moment in setting the tone for their campaign.

The Chipolopolo have been based in Nairobi since the weekend and conducted their final training session on Tuesday at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, a military-owned facility known for its pristine playing surface.

Despite the pre-match drama, preparations on the pitch appear unaffected.

Zambia’s 25-member squad, led by Grant, looked sharp as they went through drills and tactical routines ahead of Thursday’s showdown at Nyayo Stadium.

"Everything is going according to plan. The boys are focused," said a source close to the team.

“Coach Grant has been hands-on during training and is mapping out strategies to break down DR Congo’s physical game.”

The team’s technical leadership, including FAZ president Keith Mweemba, his deputy Mutale Ng’andu, and Technical Director Lyson Zulu, were present to observe the session and boost morale.

Zambia will hope to capitalize on DR Congo’s wounded confidence after their narrow loss to Kenya. Meanwhile, Morocco has taken an early lead in the group following their 2-0 victory over Angola.

After the DR Congo match, Chipolopolo faces Angola on Sunday, before a blockbuster fixture against Morocco. The group stage concludes for Zambia with a clash against hosts Kenya on August 17.