Keith Mweemba Rallies Chipolopolo to Win COSAFA and Qualify for 2030 World Cup
Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Keith Mweemba has rallied the Chipolopolo squad ahead of the 2025 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup, urging them to seize the opportunity to win silverware, prepare for CHAN 2025, and keep their eyes on the bigger prize — qualifying for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Mweemba visited the national team during a training session at Nkoloma Stadium, where he delivered a passionate message of encouragement, accountability, and long-term vision. He challenged the players to unite in pursuit of success while assuring them that off-pitch issues such as unpaid bonuses will be addressed.
COSAFA Cup: First Step on a Bigger Journey
Speaking to players and staff, Mweemba emphasized that while winning the 2025 COSAFA Cup is the immediate goal, the broader objective is team growth and qualification for major tournaments.
“Rome was not built in a day, but the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step,” Mweemba said.
“Together Everyone Achieves More — that’s the first principle. But above all, the greatest principle is love.”
He reiterated that COSAFA and CHAN are crucial opportunities for the team to build cohesion, sharpen tactics, and create a winning identity ahead of future AFCON and World Cup campaigns.
World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Finish Strong
Mweemba also addressed Zambia’s position in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, where the Chipolopolo sit fourth in Group E with 6 points, but still have a fighting chance to qualify with four more games to go.
“I want this team to finish strong in the qualifiers. We can’t afford to drop points,” he said.
“We must keep pushing. The big vision is to see Zambia qualify for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.”
Group E Standings (as of May 2025):
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Morocco – 15 pts
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Tanzania – 9 pts
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Niger – 6 pts
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Zambia – 6 pts
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Congo – 0 pts
Zambia’s remaining matches will be pivotal, and Mweemba made it clear that a strong finish is essential if the Chipolopolo are to dream big.
Mweemba Acknowledges Bonus Issues: “It Will Be Resolved”
In a rare show of transparency, the FAZ president acknowledged that some players are owed winning bonuses and assured the squad that steps are being taken to settle the outstanding payments.
“I know that some of you are owed money. I’ve been made aware, and I want to assure you that this issue is being looked into — and it will be resolved,” Mweemba promised.
His comments were met with positive reactions from the players, many of whom have been battling on the pitch while managing off-pitch uncertainties.
“No Pressure, Just Belief”
While calling for excellence, Mweemba was careful not to add pressure to the players’ shoulders.
“I’m not here to pile pressure on you during the last days of the tournament,” he said.
“I’m here to remind you that you’re capable, and that as a country, we believe in you.”
Zambia’s COSAFA Cup History
Zambia are seven-time winners of the COSAFA Cup, most recently lifting the trophy in 2023. A eighth title would not only mark a return to regional dominance but also boost morale ahead of CHAN, AFCON, and World Cup qualifiers.
