Former Chelsea Manager Avram Grant has commended the exceptional quality of pitches at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), praising them as crucial elements for the advancement of football in Africa.
Reflecting on his experience at AFCON, Grant, who coached Zambia at the tournament likened the top-notch playing surfaces in Côte d’Ivoire to the essential foundation required for a dancer, emphasizing their importance in enhancing the standard of play on the continent.
In addition to emphasizing the significance of pitch quality, Grant outlined key areas for development in African football. He underscored the importance of investing in the development of backroom staff, including analysis, medical, and scouting departments, to maximize players’ potential and performance on the field. Furthermore, Grant highlighted the necessity of providing education for coaches at all levels, from professional leagues to youth teams, as a crucial factor in unlocking Africa’s footballing potential.
Grant’s remarks come at a pivotal moment for Zambian football, as the nation aims to continue its upward trajectory under his leadership. Despite exiting the recent AFCON tournament at the group stage, Zambia demonstrated promise and potential, marking significant progress under Grant’s guidance. As they gear up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, Grant remains focused on guiding his squad to further success, emphasizing the importance of continuous development and improvement in all aspects of the game.
