In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through African football, former Chelsea boss Avram Grant has been dramatically dismissed from his role as head coach of Zambia's national team. The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) made the decisive move following the Chipolopolo's underwhelming performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
World Cup Dreams Dashed
The Israeli manager's tenure came to an abrupt end after Zambia managed just two victories in their opening four qualifying matches. The final straw appears to have been a string of disappointing results that left the national team's World Cup aspirations hanging by a thread.
Under Grant's leadership, Zambia secured wins against Congo and Niger but suffered crucial defeats that ultimately sealed his fate. The FAZ executive committee convened an emergency meeting where they reached the unanimous decision to terminate the 69-year-old's contract immediately.
A Rollercoaster Tenure
Grant's appointment in December 2022 had initially generated significant excitement among Zambian football supporters. The experienced manager, who famously guided Chelsea to the UEFA Champions League final in 2008, was seen as the man to revitalise Zambian football and lead the Chipolopolo back to international prominence.
However, despite early promise and moments of brilliance, the team's inconsistent form in crucial World Cup qualifying matches proved unacceptable to the football association hierarchy. The decision reflects the growing pressure on African nations to secure coveted spots in the expanded World Cup format.
Search for Successor Begins
With Grant's departure confirmed, the hunt for his replacement is already underway. The FAZ faces the challenging task of identifying a manager capable of rescuing Zambia's qualifying campaign and rebuilding team morale.
Potential candidates are being scrutinised as Zambian football fans eagerly await news of who will step into the hot seat. The timing is particularly sensitive with important fixtures looming on the horizon.
African Football Landscape Shifts
This high-profile sacking highlights the increasingly competitive nature of African football and the immense pressure on managers to deliver immediate results in World Cup qualification. The continent's growing investment in football infrastructure and development has raised expectations significantly.
Grant becomes the latest in a series of high-profile managers to face the axe during the current World Cup qualifying cycle, underscoring the zero-tolerance approach many football associations are adopting towards underperformance.
