By Bola Yapa Zed Sports Desk | 30th December 2025
Chipolopolo head coach Moses Sichone admitted he was left searching for answers after Zambia suffered a humiliating 3–0 defeat to Morocco, a result that officially ended their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign. The loss confirmed Zambia’s elimination at the group stage, capping a difficult tournament for the former African champions.
Morocco Set the Tone Early
Zambia’s problems began almost immediately. Morocco asserted control from the opening exchanges and took the lead as early as the ninth minute, when Ayoub El Kaabi rose unchallenged to head home a pass from Azzedine Ounahi.
The early breakthrough exposed Zambia’s defensive fragility and set the stage for a one-sided contest, with Morocco dictating tempo, territory, and possession.
Diaz Strike Deepens Zambia’s Woes
The pressure intensified in the 37th minute, when Zambia were cut open again. Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz found space and calmly finished past Power Dynamos goalkeeper Willard Mwanza, leaving the Chipolopolo staring at a two-goal deficit before the interval.
By half-time, Morocco’s dominance was reflected in the statistics. The Atlas Lions registered nine shots on goal, while Zambia failed to record a single attempt.
Sichone: “It Is Hard to Find the Words”
Speaking after the match, a visibly dejected Sichone struggled to articulate his disappointment.
“It is hard to find the words,” Sichone said. “This is the outcome, so we need to excuse ourselves over the performance.”
Any hopes of a response were extinguished early in the second half when El Kaabi struck again in spectacular fashion, evading the defence to score an overhead kick in the 50th minute, effectively booking Zambia’s early flight home.
Too Little, Too Late
Despite the scoreline, Sichone felt there were marginal improvements after the break.
“At least in the second half we looked better, but it was too late,” he added.
However, Morocco comfortably managed the remainder of the match, never appearing threatened as they closed out the victory with ease.
Group Exit Confirmed
Zambia finished bottom of Group A with two points, while Morocco and Mali progressed to the round of 16. For the Chipolopolo, the early exit raises serious questions about direction, tactical clarity, and the next phase of rebuilding.
Conclusion
Zambia’s AFCON campaign ended not with resistance, but with resignation. Outplayed in every department by a superior Moroccan side, the Chipolopolo leave the tournament with pride dented and hard lessons to confront as focus shifts to the future.
