CHAN 2024: Zambia Predicted Lineup vs Harambee Stars

Zambia will be aiming to end their 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign on a positive note when they face hosts Kenya in their final Group A clash at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, this Sunday. Kick-off is set for 3pm East Africa Time (14hrs CAT).

The Copper Bullets have endured a nightmare run so far, losing all three of their opening fixtures to remain rooted at the bottom of the table without a single point.

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DR Congo condemned them to a 2-0 defeat in their opener, followed by a 2-1 loss to Angola in which they conceded late, before Morocco added to their misery with a 3-1 win.

In stark contrast, Kenya, debutants at this year’s CHAN, are flying high at the top of the group. With seven points from three matches, the Harambee Stars are on course for a historic quarter-final appearance.

Kenya have impressed with a 1-0 win over DR Congo, a 1-1 draw against Angola, and most recently, a gritty 1-0 victory over Morocco courtesy of Ryan Ogam’s decisive goal.

Despite Zambia being mathematically out of contention, the clash carries plenty of intrigue.

History tilts the fixture toward the Copper Bullets, who have won 21 of the 34 previous meetings, although Kenya claimed the last encounter in October 2020 with a 2-1 friendly win.

The underperforming Zambian side has come under sharp criticism for their defensive frailties and lack of bite in midfield.

Grant is tipped to respond by making several key changes, injecting fresh legs and hunger into the squad. With pressure off, Zambia may opt for a more attacking setup to exploit Kenya’s adventurous play and cause an upset that could dramatically reshape the group standings.

Midfield dynamo Rally Bwalya is expected to play a central role in dictating tempo, while the likes of Kelvin Kampamba and Prince Mumba may be tasked with providing width and creativity.

At the back, captain Kabaso Chongo will aim to marshal the defense with renewed focus, especially against Kenya’s pacey forwards.

Grant is also rumored to hand opportunities to fringe players such as Benedict Chepeshi and Charles Zulu, hoping that their energy can provide a spark missing in earlier matches.

For Kenya, the stakes are clear. Anything less than victory risks opening the door for Morocco or DR Congo to leapfrog them into the top two.

Head coach Benni McCarthy has drilled his team to stay compact defensively, but Zambia’s desperation could test their resolve.

The Harambee Stars have relied on individual brilliance at key moments, and Zambia’s fresher approach could disrupt their rhythm.

Kenya will also need to manage nerves, as debutants often face pressure when closing in on a historic achievement. With a vociferous home crowd behind them, however, they remain favorites to claim maximum points and advance to the quarter-finals.

Francis Mwansa; Happy Nsiku, Owen Tembo, Kabaso Chongo, John Chishimba; Kelvin Mbanga Kampamba, Rally Bwalya, Prince Mumba, Kelvin Mwanza; Andrew Phiri, Mathews Banda

Subs:  Willard Mwanza, Charles Kalumba,Benedict Chepeshi, Killian Kanguluma, Charles Zulu,Fredrick Mulambia, Evans Kayombo, Kenneth Kasanga, Timothy Sichalwe