COSAFA 2025: Zambia Drawn in Group D – Should the CHAN Squad Take Centre Stage?
The Zambia senior men’s national team has been drawn in Group D for the 2025 COSAFA Cup, set to be hosted in South Africa. Chipolopolo will face off against Comoros and Botswana in what looks like a manageable group on paper, but certainly not one to take lightly.
This year’s tournament promises even more competition with the inclusion of Morocco as a guest nation—bringing added spice and continental depth to the regional championship.
Time to Unleash the CHAN Squad?
Zambia’s CHAN (African Nations Championship) team has had a difficult year when it comes to preparations. Since regrouping in February, the locally-based squad has been denied several camping opportunities, mostly due to the election period the FA was in.
With CHAN 2025 kicking off in August, the COSAFA Cup now presents a golden opportunity for the CHAN technical bench to test the squad in a competitive setup.
Why it makes sense:
It gives the CHAN players a chance to gain chemistry, match sharpness, and confidence.
The technical team can assess tactical structures and squad depth under pressure.
COSAFA offers a similar level of competition to CHAN, perfect for readiness.
Can Zambia Defend the Title?
Zambia are the defending COSAFA champions, and expectations will always be high. But defending the title while using the CHAN team would be a bold yet strategic move—one that prioritizes long-term development over short-term results.
The big question remains: Can Zambia defend the title with a CHAN-focused squad? With the right planning, hunger, and execution, why not? These are players who have been itching for competitive action and will surely relish the spotlight.
Group D – Quick Overview:
Zambia
Comoros
Botswana
Final Thoughts
The CHAN squad deserves this chance. Not only would it serve national interest by aiding CHAN preparations, but it would also inject fresh hunger and purpose into Zambia’s COSAFA title defense. With smart squad selection and early preparations, Chipolopolo could very well retain the crown—and lay a solid foundation for a strong CHAN campaign.
