Grant: We felt obliged to work hard because the fans pushed us like crazy

Zambia coach Avram Grant has confessed that the support the fans gave the team pushed his boys to work hard.

With the Chipolopolo Boys needing a minimum of a point to make a return to AFCON, the fans saw the need to ‘play’ as the 12th player.

Two hours before kickoff against Ivory Coast, the 40,000 capacity Levy Mwanawasa Stadium was filled with an estimated 10,000 plus stranded outside scrambling for tickets on the black market.

Grant, in charge of his second home game, and third overall, was shocked with how crazy and passionate the nation of about 20 million people are in love with the Copper Bullets.

“The atmosphere at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium was incredible, the fans pushed us like crazy,” the 69 year old observed after Zambia’s 3-0 victory over Ivory Coast on Saturday.

“We felt obliged to work hard,” he added

“We cannot thank the fans enough. We are happy that they filled the stadium to capacity.”

The former Ghana coach also thanked his players and technical bench.

“A big thank you to my technical staff, they worked so hard to prepare the team.

“The physical conditioning of the team by Jamie Lawrence was amazing, my assistants, the medical team and all the staff did their best to help the team.”

“Most importantly I congratulate the players for the hard work and qualification.

“They should enjoy the moment now since it is off season before they get back to the hard work.”

Zambia lead Group H on 12 points while Ivory Coast are second on 10 points.

Both countries have qualified for next year’s African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

Zambia will head to Comoros Island in the final Group H match.