Zambia vs Kenya: 5 Chipolopolo Threats Harambee Stars Must Stop in CHAN 2024 Group A Decider

Zambia will be aiming to end their 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign on a positive note when they face Kenya on Sunday, August 17, in their final Group A fixture at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

The Chipolopolo have already been eliminated from the tournament, but pride and performance remain at stake.

However, this game is decisive for Kenya as the Harambee Stars know that only victory will secure them top spot in Group A and strengthen their chances of a favorable path in the knockout stages.

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Still, Zambia cannot be underestimated as it boasts individuals capable of producing decisive moments, and even in a campaign that has fallen short of expectations, their talent shines through.

Pulse Sports looks at five Chipolopolo players who could pose a serious threat to Kenya’s ambitions.

One of the most experienced defenders in the Zambian squad, Kabaso Chongo brings years of international exposure and leadership to the backline.

The Zesco United FC captain has represented his country at multiple continental tournaments and remains a reliable figure in high-pressure games. His composure, reading of the game, and ability to marshal the defense make him indispensable to the Chipolopolo cause.

Chongo’s greatest strength lies in his positional awareness and organizational skills. He is rarely caught out of place and often steps in with timely interceptions to neutralize threats. His aerial ability also gives Zambia an edge when dealing with set-pieces, both defensively and offensively.

Against Kenya, Chongo’s experience will be vital in shutting down dangerous forwards who thrive on pace and trickery.

If Zambia is to maintain defensive solidity, Chongo’s leadership will need to shine, making him one of the most important players to watch.

Kelvin Kampamba has steadily grown into one of Zambia’s most influential midfielders.

Turning out for ZESCO United, he has been a consistent performer in both domestic and continental competitions. His experience in CAF competitions has equipped him with the resilience and awareness to thrive in tough encounters.

A creative midfielder with excellent ball control and passing range, Kampamba has the ability to dictate the tempo of the game.

He is equally comfortable dropping deep to initiate attacks or pushing forward to link up with the forwards. His set-piece deliveries are also a weapon Zambia can use to unlock stubborn defenses.

Kenya will need to be wary of Kampamba’s vision and ability to thread decisive passes behind their backline.

If he finds time and space in midfield, Zambia could carve out numerous scoring opportunities through his ingenuity.

Playing for MUZA FC, young Kelvin Mwanza represents Zambia’s next generation of midfield talent.

Though less experienced than some of his teammates, Mwanza has shown maturity beyond his years in recent appearances. His energy, work rate, and hunger to prove himself make him a player worth keeping an eye on.

Mwanza thrives in a box-to-box role, capable of breaking up opposition play while also carrying the ball forward. His quick transitions from defense to attack can destabilize opponents, providing Zambia with a crucial dimension in midfield battles.

Against Kenya, Mwanza’s dynamism could be a game-changer. If he asserts himself early, his ability to cover ground and disrupt Kenyan rhythm may tilt the balance in Zambia’s favor.

At MUZA FC, Andrew Phiri has earned a reputation as a hardworking forward who combines power with precision.

His goal-scoring instincts and fearless approach make him an asset in attack. While not the most experienced striker in the squad, his willingness to press defenders and exploit spaces has impressed coaches and fans alike.

Phiri’s strength lies in his directness. He is not afraid to take on defenders, and his ability to make intelligent runs behind the backline can stretch opposing defenses.

His finishing, especially inside the penalty box, ensures Zambia has a clinical edge when opportunities arise.

For Kenya, keeping Phiri quiet will be a priority. If he manages to find pockets of space and link up effectively with midfielders like Kampamba, the Harambee Stars could find themselves under real pressure.

Prince Mumba is another exciting midfielder in the Zambian setup. Representing Power Dynamos, Mumba combines physicality with flair, making him a versatile option in the middle of the park.

Mumba excels at ball retention and driving forward with purpose. His stamina and aggression allow him to dominate midfield duels, while his attacking instincts often see him arriving late in the box to create scoring chances.

Kenya will need to be particularly cautious of Mumba’s surging runs and long-range shooting. If given space, he has the ability to dictate momentum and deliver moments of brilliance that could prove decisive in this clash.