Grant Left to Rue Missed Chances as Zambia Fall to Angola Comeback

Substitute Kaporal came off the bench to score twice in the final 11 minutes as Angola staged a stunning comeback to beat Zambia 2-1 and climb to second place in Group A at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024.

The defeat leaves Zambia bottom of the group without a point after two games, while Angola’s campaign springs back to life. The Palancas Negras now have four points from three matches, three behind leaders Kenya.

Earlier in the day, co-hosts Kenya edged Morocco 1-0 at Nyayo National Stadium, setting the stage for a tense evening fixture between Zambia and Angola.

Chanda Breaks the Deadlock
In a tight first half, chances were scarce. Zambia’s Kelvin Kampamba forced Angola goalkeeper Neblú into two quick saves in the opening minute, while Anderson Cruz and Vidinho went close for the Angolans.

The breakthrough came in the 73rd minute when Dominic Chanda pounced on a loose ball after a set-piece to put Zambia ahead, their first goal of the tournament. It seemed to pave the way for a crucial win following their opening-day loss to DR Congo.

Kaporal Turns the Game on Its Head
However, Angola coach Pedro Gonçalves introduced Kaporal to shift the momentum, and the substitute wasted no time. In the 79th minute, he calmly slotted home from a Gogoró pass to level the score.

Seven minutes later, Kaporal struck again, reacting fastest in a crowded penalty area to hammer in the winner. Zambia pushed hard for an equaliser, but wasteful finishing, including Jackson Kampamba firing wide from close range, let them down.

Grant’s Frustration
Speaking after the match, Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant praised his side’s improved display but lamented the missed opportunities.

“I think this game we played much better than the first game. We created like six clear chances and scored one, I think that says a lot about the game. We were winning 1-0 and a few individual mistakes cost us,” Grant said.

“The players tried their best today, we gave a lot of effort, but when you miss so many chances it costs you. This is a new team, we’re improving every game. The first performance wasn’t good, this one was much better, and I think the third game will be even better. But today, the chances we missed cost us.”

Group A Standings

1. Kenya – 7 points (3 matches)
2. Angola – 4 points (3 matches)
3. Morocco – 3 points (2 matches)
4. DR Congo – 3 points (2 matches)
5. Zambia – 0 points (2 matches)

What’s Next
Angola now face DR Congo in a key battle for quarter-final qualification. Zambia’s task is daunting, they must beat in-form hosts Kenya to keep their faint hopes alive.