By Bola Yapa Zed Sports Desk | 30th December 2025
Although the Chipolopolo Boys exited the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at the group stage, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) will still receive a significant financial boost from the tournament. FAZ is set to earn US$500,000, equivalent to over K11 million at the current exchange rate, following Zambia’s early elimination.
Morocco Defeat Ends Zambia’s Campaign
Zambia’s AFCON journey came to an end on Monday night after a 3–0 defeat to hosts Morocco, a result that confirmed the Chipolopolo’s exit from the competition. The loss left Zambia bottom of Group A with two points, finishing five points behind group winners Morocco.
Despite the disappointing sporting outcome, the financial implications of participation provide some relief for Football House.
CAF Prize Money Boost for FAZ
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently confirmed an increase in prize money for teams competing at AFCON. Under the revised structure, teams eliminated at the group stage will each receive US$500,000, ensuring FAZ benefits financially despite the early exit.
This payout comes at a crucial time, with FAZ facing ongoing financial pressures and operational challenges.
Revised AFCON Prize Structure
CAF’s updated prize money framework represents a major increase compared to previous editions of the tournament:
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Winners: US$10 million
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Runners-up: US$4 million
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Semi-finalists: US$2.5 million each
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Quarter-finalists: US$1.3 million each
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Round of 16 exits: US$800,000
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Best third-placed team: US$700,000
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Group-stage exits: US$500,000
By comparison, at the 2023 AFCON, champions Côte d’Ivoire received US$7 million, while runners-up Nigeria earned US$4 million, highlighting the scale of CAF’s latest increase.
Financial Relief Amid Sporting Disappointment
While Zambia fell well short of the US$10 million prize reserved for tournament winners, the guaranteed US$500,000 payout provides FAZ with much-needed breathing space. The focus now shifts to how effectively these funds will be utilised to support national teams, grassroots development, and future international campaigns.
Conclusion
Zambia’s AFCON exit was disappointing on the pitch, but financially, FAZ still stands to gain from CAF’s revised prize money structure. As attention turns to rebuilding and planning for upcoming competitions, the US$500,000 injection could play a meaningful role in stabilising and strengthening Zambian football administration.
