By FAZ MEDIA | 20th December 2025
Chipolopolo forward Lameck Banda believes Zambia has what it takes to perform strongly at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, despite being drawn against heavyweight opponents Mali and hosts Morocco.
Speaking after Zambia’s first training session at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Banda said the players are highly motivated and eager to test themselves against Africa’s traditional powerhouses.
“We are actually motivated to play the so-called big teams. These are the games every player wants to be part of,” Banda said.
The forward added that Zambia is determined to make amends following their early exit at the previous AFCON, saying the team has learnt valuable lessons.
“Obviously last time we did not do well, but we now have a chance to utilise the knowledge we gathered and do better at this year’s Africa’s biggest football bonanza,” he said.
The Chipolopolo arrived in Casablanca late last evening and are drawn in Group A alongside Morocco, Mali and the Comoros Islands.
Zambia will open their AFCON campaign at the Mohammed the fith Stadium in Casablanca on December 22, 2025.against Mali.
With the full squad now in camp, head coach Moses Sichone is optimistic about assembling a competitive and efficient side capable of progressing beyond the group stages.
