AFCON 2025: Tournament guide for Zambia
As Zambia heads into the 2025 AFCON edition in Morocco, they stand as a team in transition, blending the ghosts of a glorious past with the hunger of a new generation determined to restore their status as kings of the south.
Zambia’s relationship with AFCON is defined by two monumental events. The first is the heartbreaking 1993 plane crash off the coast of Gabon, which claimed the lives of an entire national team generation many believed was destined to conquer Africa. Remarkably, a rebuilt squad reached the final just a year later in 1994, falling narrowly to Nigeria in a display of incredible national spirit.
The second defining moment came in 2012. In a poetic twist of fate, the tournament returned to Gabon, the very site of the 1993 tragedy. Led by Hervé Renard, an unfancied Zambian side embarked on a fairytale run that culminated in a penalty shootout victory over a star-studded Ivory Coast. That maiden title remains one of the most cherished moments in African sports. With 19 previous appearances and three finals (1974, 1994, 2012), Zambia enters 2025 as a seasoned veteran looking to move past a period of recent inconsistency.
The Path to Morocco: Dominating Group G
Zambia’s journey to the 2025 finals was a statement of intent, proving they belong among the continent’s elite. Competing in a challenging Group G, the Copper Bullets defied the odds to finish as group winners with 13 points, remarkably edging out the reigning African champions, Ivory Coast.
The campaign did not start perfectly; a 2-0 defeat in Bouaké against the Ivorians left fans nervous. However, under the guidance of Avram Grant at the time, the team showed immense character by going unbeaten in their next five matches. They secured crucial back-to-back wins against Sierra Leone and took four points from a gritty double-header against Chad.
The crowning achievement of the qualification phase came on November 15, 2024, at a packed Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. A clinical strike from Kennedy Musonda secured a 1-0 victory over Ivory Coast. This win did more than just confirm qualification—it allowed Zambia to leapfrog the “Elephants” to finish at the top of the table, ensuring they headed to Morocco with momentum and the respect of the entire continent.
The General at the Helm: Moses Sichone
Following the departure of Avram Grant, Zambia turned to Moses Sichone, a local legend to lead them into battle. A powerhouse defender who spent a decade in the German Bundesliga with clubs like 1. FC Köln, Sichone brings a “made in Zambia, refined in Europe” approach to the dugout.
Coaching Style:
Sichone’s philosophy is built on the bedrock of defensive organization—a nod to his playing days—but he demands high-intensity, vertical football. He favors a flexible 4-1-4-1 system that emphasizes physical strength and rapid transitions. However, just days before the 2025 tournament, a cloud of uncertainty appeared as CAF raised questions regarding his coaching certification. Despite this, the squad remains molded in his image: pragmatic, difficult to break down, and explosive on the counter.
The Stars of the Copper Bullets
- Patson Daka: The Leicester City talisman is the undisputed spearhead of the attack. His elite movement and clinical finishing make him one of the most feared strikers in the tournament.
- Lameck Banda: A dynamic and tricky winger playing in Serie A with Lecce. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one and create chances out of nothing is Zambia’s primary creative spark.
- Kings Kangwa: The midfield engine. Currently playing for Maccabi Be’er Sheva, Kangwa provides the technical composure and passing range required to dictate the tempo of the game.
- Stoppila Sunzu: The veteran hero of the 2012 triumph. At the heart of the defense, Sunzu provides the leadership and aerial dominance necessary to guide the younger players through high-pressure moments.
- Eliya Mandanji: A 18-year-old breakout striker from Zanaco who represents the future of the team, earning a surprise call-up after a stunning domestic season.
AFCON 2025: Group A Battle Plan
Zambia finds themselves in a rigorous Group A, sharing the stage with the hosts and two tricky tactical sides. They will spend the majority of the group stage in Casablanca before a massive showdown in the capital.
- December 22, 2025: Zambia vs. Mali at the Mohammed V Sports Complex, Casablanca (15:30)
- December 26, 2025: Zambia vs. Comoros at the Mohammed V Sports Complex, Casablanca (15:30)
- December 29, 2025: Morocco vs. Zambia at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat (18:30)
The Chipolopolo open their account against a powerful Mali side, a match that will set the tone for their tournament. They then face a familiar foe in Comoros—a rematch of their qualifying battles—before traveling to Rabat for against the host nation, Morocco, in front of their home crowd.
