Zambia Must Aim to Compete, Not Just Participate at AFCON 2025
As the countdown to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) continues, Zambia finds itself at a crucial juncture. With ample preparation time before the tournament kicks off December 2025, all stakeholders must work together to ensure that Zambia doesn’t just show up to participate but arrives ready to compete for the ultimate prize.
This AFCON presents a unique opportunity. The extended preparation period allows every qualified team to get their footballing structures in order. For Zambia, it’s time to set our targets high and strive for nothing less than winning the tournament. Many nations will head to Morocco with the same ambition, but for Zambia, the stakes are particularly significant.
Given the country’s current economic and political challenges, securing the AFCON trophy could be a game changer. It would not only restore national pride but also bring a sense of unity and hope to Zambians everywhere. The power of football to inspire and uplift communities cannot be underestimated, and this is the moment for Zambia to seize that potential.
As a coach, football writer, and analyst, I believe now is the time for decisive action. We must focus on building a strong technical bench that can guide the team effectively. If Coach Avram Grant has met his Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) must clarify his future immediately. Last-minute planning and decision-making can no longer be tolerated.
The team needs time to gel and build chemistry, and this requires proper camping arrangements well in advance. This year’s AFCON campaign was marred by reports of poor organization, and while those issues are now in the past, we cannot afford to repeat those mistakes. Proper planning, early preparation, and clear communication are essential to Zambia’s success.
Zambia’s 2023 AFCON outing was far from fruitful, but it offers valuable lessons. The need for professionalism at every level from administration to technical staff to the players is clearer than ever. The failures of the past should motivate all stakeholders to ensure that this AFCON campaign is different.
This is the time to act. The focus must be on creating a cohesive team, maintaining discipline, and fostering a winning mentality. From FAZ to the technical bench, from players to fans, everyone has a role to play.
The road to AFCON 2025 is paved with challenges, but it’s also full of potential. With proper preparation, clear targets, and unity among all stakeholders, Zambia can dream of lifting the AFCON trophy again. The time for action is now let’s make it count.
