Today, the Chipolopolo step onto the pitch to face the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match at the African Nations Championship (CHAN). While this tournament often flies under the radar, for coach Avram Grant and his technical bench, it should carry immense weight. Winning CHAN could be the spark Zambia needs to reignite its continental ambitions, setting the stage for a strong showing at the next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). In short, the stakes today go far beyond a single match. Although CHAN doesn’t enjoy the same prestige as AFCON, its value as a strategic platform for nurturing local talent and advancing a nation’s footballing identity cannot be overstated. For Zambia, success at this tournament is not...