By Bola Yapa Zed Sports Desk | 11th December 2025

Daka Backed to Shine at AFCON 2025 Despite Club Struggles

Patson Daka may be enduring a difficult club season at Leicester City, but the Chipolopolo striker remains Zambia’s leading forward heading into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off on December 21 in Morocco. Despite scoring just once this season, national team legend Collins Mbesuma believes Daka has what it takes to rediscover his form on the biggest African stage.

Zambia will be making their 19th appearance at the continental tournament, 13 years after lifting the AFCON trophy in 2012. The Chipolopolo Boys open their Group A campaign against Mali on December 22, a match expected to set the tone for their journey in a group that also includes hosts Morocco and Comoros.

Daka has struggled for consistent output at Leicester City this season, registering only one goal and one assist in 20 appearances. The 26-year-old has found it difficult to break into the starting lineup regularly, contributing to a notable dip in form. However, his national team record remains impressive and continues to demonstrate his importance to the Chipolopolo.

With 21 goals in 45 caps, Daka sits just one goal behind Collins Mbesuma, who leads Zambia’s all-time scoring chart with 22 goals in 65 appearances. At the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, Daka contributed one goal and one assist in three matches, showing his ability to deliver for the national team regardless of club challenges.

Speaking exclusively to Bolanews, 2012 AFCON champion Collins Mbesuma encouraged Daka to use the tournament as an opportunity to revive his confidence and scoring touch. Mbesuma believes the national team environment may provide the motivation and boost the striker needs.

“I pray Patson Daka can redeem his form at the AFCON. Sometimes it’s good to take a break from your club to the national team because with the national team you are also representing your country,” Mbesuma said.

He added that club form does not always determine national team performance. “There are players who are off form at the club, but at the national team they are doing well, so I wish Daka is going to do the same.”

The former Portsmouth striker further urged Daka not to dwell on his club struggles, insisting that the AFCON atmosphere will help lift his spirit. “The scoring drought at his club cannot affect him at the AFCON tournament. When you see your fellow Zambians, you feel relieved. I hope and wish him all the best,” Mbesuma noted.

As Zambia prepares for a challenging Group A campaign, the Chipolopolo will undoubtedly rely on Daka’s experience, pace, and goal-scoring instincts. With the backing of both fans and legends of the game, the Leicester City striker heads into AFCON 2025 with a point to prove and an opportunity to climb to the top of Zambia’s all-time scoring list.

Conclusion

Despite a difficult season in England, Patson Daka remains central to Zambia’s ambitions at AFCON 2025. With encouragement from Collins Mbesuma and a proven national team record, the Chipolopolo forward heads to Morocco with both pressure and opportunity. Zambia will hope he rediscovers his sharpness and leads the line with confidence as the team targets a strong start against Mali.