Zambia head coach Avram Grant has expressed optimism following his side’s draw against Tanzania on Sunday in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023.
Tanzania were searching for their first Africa Cup of Nations win in 44 years but was dashed when Zambia snatched a late 1-1 Group F draw in San-Pedro.
Grant’s men scored late through Patson Daka’s header to rescue a draw against the Taifa Stars.
“It’s a disappointing result. We knew it wouldn’t be an easy match after watching Tanzania’s match against Morocco. It’s true that we started well too but we conceded a goal quickly and that changed our tactics especially after the red card,” Grant told journalists in a post-match Interview.
“It’s difficult to play with ten players. But I’m happy with the boys’ reaction. They gave everything to come back.”
Zambia’s final group outing is against the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finalist and favourites Morocco on Wednesday.
Grant believes his team will show up and deliver against the Atlas Lions.
“We already know that Morocco is a big team but we are not afraid of them. We will play them and I hope we will put up a good performance. We will have to show character,”
“That’s what we try to do every day, get better. And on all levels. Since I have been coaching this team, we have progressed in several areas but we must continue. Even when you become champion, you have to continue to improve the team.”
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