The Copper Bullets of Zambia, under the leadership of their experienced coach Avram Grant, have clinched a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. A hard-fought 1-0 victory over defending champions Ivory Coast at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Friday night sealed their qualification with one game to spare.

The pivotal moment came in the 43rd minute when Kennedy Musonda latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Joseph Banda, slotting the ball past the Ivorian defense. This goal not only electrified the home crowd but also proved enough to edge a tense Group G encounter.

Ivory Coast started the match as the dominant side, controlling possession and testing Zambia’s resolve early on. Stopilla Sunzu’s critical intervention in the 20th minute denied a near-certain goal, keeping the Chipolopolo in the game. Despite the pressure, Zambia held firm and made their solitary chance count to lead at the break.

The second half saw relentless waves of attack from the Elephants. Zambia’s defense, however, stood impenetrable, with goalkeeper Yahia Fofana making a crucial save late in the game to preserve their advantage.

Avram Grant, who famously guided Ghana to the AFCON final in 2015 only to lose on penalties to Ivory Coast, has now successfully rejuvenated Zambia’s fortunes. With 10 points, Zambia tops Group G and has one match remaining against Sierra Leone.

The victory marks another milestone in Grant’s tenure, solidifying Zambia’s place among the continent’s elite once again.