By Bola Yapa Zed | 4th November 2025
Chipolopolo winger Edward Chilufya faces a race against time to be fit for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco after suffering a knee injury that has sidelined him since last month. The 2017 U-20 AFCON winner, who plays for FC Midtjylland in Denmark, has not featured since Zambia’s narrow 1-0 loss to Niger, raising concerns about his availability for the continental showpiece.
According to a statement from FC Midtjylland, Chilufya is not expected to return to action until January 2026, which effectively rules him out of the AFCON that kicks off on December 21, 2025, and runs until January 18, 2026. The Danish club confirmed that the Zambian winger is currently undergoing a rehabilitation program and will need additional recovery time before returning to full fitness.
This timeline means Chilufya will also miss Zambia’s international friendlies against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on November 15 and Burundi three days later in Bujumbura. His absence will be a major blow to head coach Avram Grant’s successor, who will have to reshuffle the squad’s attacking setup.
Chilufya’s potential absence comes at a time when the Chipolopolo are preparing for one of the toughest groups at AFCON 2025. Zambia has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros — a group that demands both pace and creativity from wide players.
Known for his explosive runs, quick dribbling, and direct attacking play, Chilufya has often provided Zambia with a vital edge on the flanks. His energy and ability to stretch defences could have been key in breaking down stubborn opponents in Morocco. Losing him could limit Zambia’s attacking options, placing more responsibility on Lameck Banda, Fashion Sakala, and Patson Daka to provide goals and assists.
With Chilufya ruled out, Zambia may turn to young talents like Miguel Chaiwa, Francis Zulu, or Edward Lungu to fill the void. The technical bench will also be keen to see if Lubambo Musonda, who has been in good form at club level, can step up to provide width and creativity.
While Chilufya’s absence is a setback, the depth of Zambia’s current squad offers some reassurance. The team will look to maintain its rhythm and sharpness during the upcoming friendlies before traveling to Morocco for the AFCON campaign.
Edward Chilufya’s knee injury is a significant setback for both the player and the Chipolopolo, who were counting on his experience and attacking flair at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. As Zambia prepares to face some of the continent’s strongest teams, the technical team will hope other wingers can rise to the occasion and fill the gap left by one of the nation’s most dynamic talents.
