CHAN: Zambia have got what it takes to go all the way – Mfune

Former Zambia national team defender Buchizya Mfune has backed Zambia to go all the way and lift the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) trophy in East Africa.

The Chipolopolo have been regular features in CHAN, qualifying for the finals an impressive four times out of the previous seven editions. Their last taste of continental success came at AFCON 2012 when they became the second Southern African nation after South Africa (1996) to win the AFCON.

Zambia are placed in a tough Group A alongside hosts Kenya, Morocco, DR Congo, and Angola. The 2024 CHAN tournament will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from August 2 to 30.

“Some of the players in this team have played at AFCON and that kind of experience is invaluable,” said Mfune in an interview as quoted by Bola News. “Their presence will guide the younger ones, especially during difficult moments in the tournament.

“This is a golden opportunity, and they should give it everything. Zambia has what it takes to go all the way and win the title. They just need to remain focused, disciplined, and fight for the badge.”

The 2024 finals will mark Zambia’s fifth appearance at continental showpiece, with their last appearance being in 2020. Their best performance came in the inaugural edition where they finished in the top three with a bronze medal following their 2-1 victory over Senegal.

Zambia will open their CHAN campaign on August 7 with a tussle against DR Congo before facing Angola three days later. The third game will be against Morocco on August 14 before concluding the group matches three days later against hosts Kenya.