Patson Daka of Zambia during the Zambia Training Session at UJ Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on14 November 2025 ©Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
Thursday Dec 18, 2025. 14:00
Zambia’s prospects at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) look brighter than they have in over a decade. Since their historic triumph in 2012, Chipolopolo have struggled to replicate that success, enduring early group-stage exits in 2013 and 2015 and missing three consecutive tournaments (2017, 2019, and 2021).
However, their recent qualification campaign for the 2025 tournament, in which they impressively topped their group ahead of defending champions Ivory Coast, signals a resurgence under head coach Avram Grant.
Appointed in late 2022, Grant has brought stability and tactical discipline to a squad combining youthful energy with experienced heads. His influence was evident during the qualifiers, where Zambia not only secured crucial wins but did so with a more attacking, confident style of play. Grant’s extensive international experience, including leading Ghana to the AFCON final in 2015, could prove vital in guiding Zambia deep into the tournament.
Zambia are drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros — a challenging but manageable bracket. Morocco, semi-finalists at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and one of the favourites, represent the sternest test. Mali, consistently competitive and physically strong, will also pose problems. Comoros, though less heralded, have shown they can spring surprises, notably during AFCON 2021. Progressing from this group will require discipline, clinical finishing, and strong leadership on the pitch.
Key to Zambia’s hopes is Leicester City forward Patson Daka. His pace, intelligent movement, and eye for goal make him a constant threat. Daka is not only Zambia’s most high-profile player but also their most reliable attacking outlet. Alongside him, Kennedy Musonda offers a more physical, direct option in the final third, giving the team multiple attacking avenues.
In midfield and on the wings, Lubambo Musonda brings energy and experience. A veteran of several qualifying campaigns, his versatility allows him to slot into various tactical setups, providing both defensive cover and attacking width.
At the back, goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata has been a steady presence. His shot-stopping and command of the penalty area were vital during qualification, and he will need to be at his best against top-level opposition in Group A.
Zambia’s strength lies in their team cohesion and renewed belief from recent results. However, they must overcome the psychological weight of past AFCON disappointments and the challenge of facing elite sides in front of a partisan Moroccan crowd. Securing a result against either Morocco or Mali and avoiding slip-ups against Comoros will be key to reaching the knockout stages.
While not among the pre-tournament favourites, Chipolopolo’s blend of youth, experience, and tactical organisation gives them a genuine chance to make a deep run — and perhaps even recapture the magic of 2012.