By Chansa Kunda | ZNBC 20TH December 2025
Former Chipolopolo head coach Wedson Nyirenda has urged Zambian football fans to remain patient and supportive of coach Moses Sichone and his players following a series of disappointing results in recent international friendly matches ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Zambia suffered defeats against South Africa, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, but Nyirenda insists that such results should not be used to judge the team’s true potential. He explained that friendly matches are primarily designed to help the technical bench assess player combinations, tactical balance, and areas that require improvement before a major tournament, rather than to focus on results alone.
Nyirenda further emphasized that expectations for Chipolopolo at AFCON remain high, noting that Zambia has the quality and experience required to compete effectively on the continental stage. He stressed that the real test will come during the group-stage matches in Morocco, where the team is expected to rise to the occasion and secure qualification to the knockout rounds. According to the former coach, it would be unfair to “crucify” the players or the technical staff based on preparatory matches, as tournament football demands a different level of intensity, focus, and execution compared to friendlies.
Meanwhile, coach George Lwandamina also voiced his confidence in the current Chipolopolo squad, stating that Zambia has a strong team capable of delivering at AFCON 2025 if unity and commitment are maintained. Lwandamina highlighted the importance of character, mental strength, and national pride, urging players to understand the weight of representing the country on Africa’s biggest football stage. He reminded the squad that Zambia’s historic 2012 AFCON triumph remains a symbol of national pride that must be protected and honored through disciplined and determined performances. The two former coaches shared their views during an interview with ZNBC Sports in Lusaka, calling on fans to rally behind the team as preparations for AFCON intensify.
