By Bola Yapa Zed Sports Desk | 10th December 2025

Chipolopolo Forward Sets Clear AFCON Goal: Reach the Next Round

Chipolopolo winger Fashion Sakala says Zambia’s first objective at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is to qualify from the group stage as the team intensifies preparations for the continental showpiece. Speaking from camp, the Al Fayha forward expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness and overall progress as the AFCON draws closer.

Sakala emphasised that the technical bench and players are fully committed to preparing a team capable of competing against Africa’s top sides. He noted that training sessions and international friendlies have been productive, giving the squad a clearer picture of what is required to excel in Morocco.

He added that confidence within the group continues to grow, with every player fighting for their place and showing hunger to represent the country on one of Africa’s biggest stages.

“The preparations are going well. I think the team looks good. I can tell that each and every player is ready to fight for the position. So yeah, they are going very well and I think we are ready to fight,” Sakala said.

Sakala pointed out that Zambia’s friendly matches against South Africa and Angola earlier in the year laid an important foundation for their AFCON build-up. He noted that the upcoming camp in Spain will further sharpen the team as the tournament approaches, giving the players crucial match rhythm and tactical clarity.

“For us, we only have one goal. The first target that we have is obviously to get to the next stage. I think the group stage is very important for us and we just want to qualify for the next stage. And that’s the target for now. That’s the language that we have in the team,” he added.

Zambia has been drawn in Group A alongside host nation Morocco, Mali, and Comoros—three sides Sakala recognises as strong opponents. However, he believes the Chipolopolo have the quality and mentality to rise to the challenge, particularly after gaining valuable experience from their last AFCON outing.

Sakala highlighted the presence of young and relatively unknown players in the squad, whom he believes could be instrumental in surprising opponents and adding a new dynamic to Zambia’s game.

“We have a very good team, a team of young players and we look very confident. To be honest, I can tell that the game we played against Angola gave me confidence that we actually have a very good team to fight in the Africa Cup,” he said.

Reflecting on the 2023 AFCON campaign, Sakala described it as a wake-up call for many players who were experiencing the tournament for the first time. He insisted that the team is now more mature, better prepared, and fully aware of the demands of competing at the highest level.

“I think for me that Africa Cup that we played last time was more like a wake-up call because a lot of players, it was our first time to play in such a big tournament. But now, I think we are very much ready. We know what to expect and we know how tough it is,” he added.

Looking ahead, Sakala underscored the importance of Zambia’s opening match against Mali, stressing that a positive result in that fixture will shape the team’s trajectory in the group.

“For us the first game is very important and that’s when we are going to see if we can proceed to the next stage. But I know for sure that the team will fight against Mali in our first game. We’re very much ready for that game,” he said.

Conclusion

Fashion Sakala’s confidence and clarity reflect a Chipolopolo squad determined to set the right tone at AFCON 2025. With strong preparations, a blend of experience and emerging talent, and a clear goal of reaching the knockout stage, Zambia approaches the tournament with renewed belief and competitive intent.