By Bola Yapa Zed Sports Desk | 30th December 2025 |
The Zambian government has issued a strong rebuke of the Chipolopolo Boys’ performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, describing the team’s campaign as unacceptable for a nation that once ruled African football.
Government Expresses Disappointment
Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, said the government was deeply dissatisfied with Zambia’s showing at the continental showpiece. Zambia exited the tournament without a single win, finishing with two points from a possible nine.
Nkandu said the performance fell far below expectations for a country that lifted the AFCON trophy in 2012.
“We need to immediately start reorganising ourselves. Our players did not show the required character, patriotism, sense of responsibility, and will to win that is expected when one wears the national jersey,” Nkandu said.
Lack of Character and Responsibility Highlighted
The Minister was particularly critical of what he described as a lack of mental strength and national pride displayed by the team. He stressed that representing Zambia at AFCON demands commitment, discipline, and a strong winning mentality—qualities he felt were missing throughout the tournament.
Zambia failed to register a single victory and struggled to impose themselves in key moments, ultimately bowing out at the group stage.
Call for FAZ and Technical Bench to Act
Nkandu urged the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), the technical bench, and players to engage in serious introspection and begin implementing reforms aimed at restoring competitiveness at senior national team level.
He referenced resolutions from the National Football Indaba, emphasising that the recommendations must move beyond paperwork and translate into tangible change.
Junior Teams Progress, Senior Team Lagging
While acknowledging progress within Zambia’s junior national teams, Nkandu expressed concern that the senior men’s team has failed to match that upward trajectory.
“The growth of our junior national teams is commendable, but the senior men’s team has not matched that progress, and this is an issue that must be urgently addressed,” he added.
The comments underline growing pressure on FAZ to bridge the gap between youth development and senior national team success.
Conclusion
The government’s public criticism adds to mounting scrutiny following Zambia’s AFCON 2025 exit. With questions now being asked at the highest levels, the Chipolopolo face a defining moment as stakeholders demand accountability, reform, and a clear roadmap back to continental relevance.
